Meaning of the De La Vega family crest symbols

Helmet
The helmet placed on the shield symbolizes the strength of the family unit and the protection it provides. It is a symbol of the importance of standing together and having strong defenses against any external threats.
Shield - Bordure
The 'bordure' edge around the shield is a mark of difference used to identify separate families that hold similar coat of arms designs. It is one that became a distinctive mark of pride over time for those families that used one.
Meaning of the De La Vega coat of arms colors
Black
The black color (known as Sable) symbolizes constancy and the enduring nature of the family. It is a symbol of family longevity through time.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
De La Vega name meaning and origin
De La Vega is a Spanish surname meaning "from the meadow" or "of the marsh." It traces origins to various regions in Spain, often linked to geographic features. The name historically reflects one's association with fertile lands, highlighting a connection to nature and agriculture.
History of family crests like the De La Vega 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.
De La Vega name variations and their meaning
Variations of the family name De La Vega showcase a fascinating linguistic evolution across centuries and regions. In the late 15th century, Spanish colonizers brought the name to Latin America, resulting in adaptations like Delavega or De La Vega in the Americas, where phonetic shifts often occurred due to local dialects. Meanwhile, in the 17th century, Portuguese speakers began using variations like Da Veiga, influenced by their language's structure and pronunciation. By the 19th century, as migration patterns changed, the name appeared in places like the United States, where it sometimes became anglicized as Dela Vega or simply Vega, reflecting the cultural integration and simplification of names in English-speaking contexts. In Italy, you might find Delavega, as the name adapted to local linguistic norms, further illustrating the fluidity and diversity of this surname through time and geography. Similarly, in the last century, variations such as De la Veiga in Catalonia emerged, showcasing both regional pride and the ongoing evolution of family names in response to cultural shifts.
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
