Map of Italy showing where the Durazzo arms are recorded
The Durazzo arms were recorded in Rome, c. 1775.
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 Italy in this period.
Alvise Giovanni Mocenigo
Sovereign of the period
Alvise Giovanni Mocenigo
1763–1778
Reigning in Italy when the Durazzo arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Italy
In the Italian states, coats of arms were often used by noble families to show their status and history. These symbols were passed down through the generations to all legitimate male descendants. Younger branches of a family usually kept the original design but sometimes added small changes to distinguish their specific line from the main branch.
Granting authority
Various local rulers and city governments controlled the use of coats of arms across the different Italian states.
How they got arms
Families often assumed their own arms or received them as official grants from local lords, popes, or city councils.
Where arms were recorded
Arms were recorded in local city archives or private family books rather than in one single national register.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Italy.
Origin & History of the Durazzo Family in Italy
The Durazzo family name originates from the city of Durrës in modern-day Albania, which was historically known as Dyrrachium. During the Middle Ages, members of the family migrated across the Adriatic Sea to settle in the Italian city of Genoa. They became a prominent and wealthy merchant family that played a significant role in the political and economic life of the Republic of Genoa for several centuries. By the late 18th century, branches of the family had expanded their influence into other major Italian cities, including Rome. Records confirm that members of the Durazzo family were established residents of Rome by 1775, where they continued to participate in the social and administrative circles of the time. Their movement from the Balkan coast to the heart of Italy reflects the broader patterns of trade and migration that shaped European history during the Renaissance and the Enlightenment.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
durus
Latin adjective meaning hard, harsh, or enduring.
This name
DurazzoDerived from a nickname for a stern, unyielding, or physically tough individual.
also spelled
Duracci
Durasi
Duratzi
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Grendler, Paul F., The Universities of the Italian Renaissance, 2002
Musso, Gian Giacomo, Il prestigio dei Durazzo, 1982
Archivio di Stato di Genova, Famiglia Durazzo, 14th–19th century
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
