A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Ghezzi family of Italy.
Reg. 3775 · Italian, G–I
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
chevronProtection, and faithful service completed
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
serpentWisdom, healing and prudence
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
Colours
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Green (Vert)Means: Hope
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'azur au chev. d'or, acc. de trois étoiles du même et ch. de deux lézards de sin., poses dans le sens du chev.: au chef du premier, ch. de trois fleurs-de-lis d'or, rangées entre les quatre pendants d'un lambel de gu.”
ItalyBologne, c. 1775
Where the Ghezzi Arms Were Recorded
Bologne
Map of Italy showing where the Ghezzi arms are recorded
The Ghezzi arms were recorded in Bologne, 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 Ghezzi 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 Ghezzi Family in Italy
The Ghezzi family name finds its historical roots in the northern regions of Italy, with significant documentation placing members of the family in Bologna by the year 1775. The name itself is believed to be a variation of the medieval personal name Ghizzo, which was a common shorthand for names ending in the suffix -ghizo. During the eighteenth century, families in cities like Bologna often gained prominence through trade, craftsmanship, or service to the local administration. As the Ghezzi family established themselves in this urban environment, they became part of the vibrant social and economic fabric of the city. Their presence in the historical records of Bologna suggests that they were settled residents who participated in the daily life and professional activities of the region during a time of great cultural change in Italy.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Ghezzo
A medieval Italian term meaning blind or having light-colored eyes.
This name
GhezziA patronymic or plural form derived from a nickname for someone with light-colored eyes.
also spelled
Ghezzi
Giezi
Kiezi
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Dizionario Storico-Blasonico delle Famiglie Nobili e Notabili Italiane, G.B. di Crollalanza, 1886
Archivio di Stato di Bologna, Stato Civile della Restaurazione
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