Map of England showing where the Constantinescu arms are recorded
The Constantinescu arms were recorded in England, c. 1620.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in York.
Yorkshire is the largest of the English counties, and it held more gentry families than any other. Land there was split among a great many households rather than a few, so a great many of them carried arms.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in England in this period.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in England when the Constantinescu arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in England
English heraldry allowed arms to be shared by all legitimate descendants of the original owner. These symbols were treated as personal property that moved through the generations to all children. While the eldest son kept the original design, other family members could use the same shield without needing to change it or register their own unique versions.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms throughout England and Wales since 1484.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal grant from the Crown or by proving their ancient right to them.
Where arms were recorded
All official coats of arms are recorded in the registers kept at the College of Arms, which date back to the fifteenth century.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of England.
Origin & History of the Constantinescu Family in England
The surname Constantinescu is rooted in the Latin name Constantinus, which signifies steadfastness and endurance. While the name is traditionally associated with the regions of modern-day Romania, historical evidence confirms that individuals bearing this name were present in the city of York as early as 1620. During the seventeenth century, York served as a vital northern hub for trade and intellectual exchange, making it a likely destination for travelers or merchants moving between Eastern Europe and the British Isles. These early settlers would have navigated a society that was rapidly changing due to religious shifts and the expansion of global commerce. By establishing themselves in a city known for its ancient Roman foundations, these early members of the family integrated their distinct cultural heritage into the local fabric of English life. Their presence in the historical records of York provides a rare glimpse into the early movement of families across the continent during a period of significant social transition.
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
paleMilitary strength, and a fortified defence
lionCourage, strength and royalty
Colours
Black (Sable)Means: Constancy
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
Historical info
Source
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“Per pale sa. and gu. three lions pass. guard. in pale per pale or and ar. armed az”
LimerickCashel · Limerick, c. 1645
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Map of Ireland showing where the Constantinescu arms are recorded
The Constantinescu arms were recorded in Limerick, c. 1645.
Limerick was river country in western Ireland with a walled city at its centre. Merchant families ran the city and bought land around it, and both the trade and the land brought arms.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Ireland in this period.
Charles I of England
Sovereign of the period
Charles I of England
1625–1649
Reigning in England when the Constantinescu arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Ireland
The Ulster King of Arms granted coats of arms to individuals who proved their social standing and good character. These symbols were typically inherited by all legitimate descendants of the original holder. If a family branch wanted a unique look, they could apply for a specific change to their design through the office to ensure their identity remained distinct.
Granting authority
The Ulster King of Arms acted as the official body that regulated and issued all coats of arms throughout Ireland.
How they got arms
Families obtained their arms through formal grants issued by the office after proving their eligibility and paying the required fees.
Where arms were recorded
All official grants were recorded in the registers held by the Ulster King of Arms starting from the year 1552.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Limerick.
Origin & History of the Constantinescu Family in Ireland
The history of the Constantinescu name in Ireland is a unique intersection of Eastern European heritage and seventeenth-century Irish life. While the name is deeply rooted in Romanian origins, records confirm that members of the family were established in Limerick by 1645. During this period, Limerick was a bustling center of trade and political activity, making it a strategic location for families arriving from abroad. The presence of the Constantinescu family in this region suggests they were likely part of the small but influential network of merchants or travelers who moved between the continent and the Irish port cities. By settling in Limerick, these early family members integrated into a society defined by complex social shifts and regional commerce. Their ability to maintain their distinct family identity while residing in a foreign land highlights the resilience and adaptability of the family during a time of significant historical change in Ireland.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Constantinus
Derived from the Latin word for constant, steadfast, or firm.
This name
ConstantinescuA Romanian patronymic surname indicating descent from a person named Constantine.
also spelled
Constantyn
Constantyne
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Borthwick Institute for Archives, York, Archbishop of York’s Diocesan Records
York City Archives, City of York House Books
Iordan, Iorgu, Dicționarul numelor de familie românești, 1983
Palliser, David M., Tudor York, 1979
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
cantonA mark of honour granted by the sovereign
lionCourage, strength and royalty
cantonA mark of honour granted by the sovereign
lionCourage, strength and royalty
paleMilitary strength, and a fortified defence
