Meaning of the Cortese family crest symbols
Torse
The torse was originally used to mask the join between helmet and crest but also holds a secondary meaning as a momento given to a crusader by his lady-love, given to him when he left for battle.
Cross
The cross in heraldry is the most widely used religious symbol and represents Christ's rise from the dead to claim victory over sin. It was used as a connection to the founding family member’s early religious devotion.
Meaning of the Cortese coat of arms colors
Silver
The silver or white color on the coat of arms, (known as 'Argent'), signifies sincerity and peacefulness. It is one of the oldest colors known in ancient heraldry.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Cortese name meaning and origin
Cortese is an Italian surname that means "courteous" or "polite." It is derived from the Latin word "cortesia," which means courtesy or politeness.
History of family crests like the Cortese coat of arms
Family crests and coats of arms emerged during the Middle Ages, mostly in wider Europe. They were used as a way to identify knights and nobles on the battlefield and in tournaments. The designs were unique to each family and were passed down from generation to generation.
The earliest crests were simple designs, such as a single animal or symbol, but they became more elaborate over time. Coats of arms were also developed, which included a shield with the family crest, as well as other symbols and colors that represented the family's history and achievements.
The use of family crests and coats of arms spread throughout Europe and became a symbol of social status and identity. They were often displayed on clothing, armor, and flags, and were used to mark the family's property and possessions.
Today, family crests and coats of arms are still used as a way to honor and celebrate family heritage.
Cortese name variations and their meaning
The family name Cortese has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Italy, it is commonly spelled as Cortesi or Cortesio. These variations reflect the diverse linguistic traditions within the country. In Spain, the name is often written as Cortez or Cortés, highlighting the influence of Spanish language and culture. In Portuguese-speaking countries, it may appear as Cortês or Cortez, showcasing the adaptation of the name to the Portuguese phonetic system. In France, the name is sometimes spelled as Courtois or Courtoise, indicating the French influence on the surname. In English-speaking countries, it is typically written as Cortese, maintaining the original Italian spelling. These variations demonstrate how the name has evolved and been adapted to different languages and cultures throughout history. Despite the differences in spelling, these variations all represent branches of the same family tree, connecting individuals across borders and generations.
Find your family crest
Learn how to find your family crest.
Other resources:
- Get your official family crest here.
- Learn about heraldry at britannica.com
- See an introduction at wikipedia.com
