Havelka family crest and coat of arms

Scroll for info

Meaning of the Havelka 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.

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 Havelka 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.

Havelka name meaning and origin

Havelka is a surname of Slavic origin, commonly found in Czech and Slovak regions. It is derived from the given name Havel, which is associated with the word "hawk." The name reflects qualities such as strength, agility, and keen perception.

History of family crests like the Havelka 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.

Havelka name variations and their meaning

Havelka has woven a rich tapestry of variations across different cultures and languages. In Czech, a common variant is Havlík, which emerged during the 14th century as a diminutive form, signaling affection or familiarity, while in Polish, Hawełka reflects the phonetic adaptability found in Slavic languages during the 15th century. The Slovak adaptation Havelka became prominent in the 16th century, possibly indicating regional dialectical influences that molded its pronunciation and spelling. In Hungary, a similar-sounding name, Havlik, appeared in the 17th century, showcasing the blending of Slavic and Magyar linguistic elements. As time progressed, the 18th century saw deviations such as Havelska in some Eastern European locales, illustrating how migration and cultural exchange can shape naming conventions, thereby enriching the family's heritage across borders.

Find your family crest

Learn how to find your family crest.

Other resources: