Meaning of the Hohenzollern family crest symbols
Fleur-de-lis
The fleur-de-lis is one of the oldest in international heraldry. It represents purity, light and religious devotion including connotations of the Virgin Mary. It stands as a connection to the family's earliest religious associations and beliefs.
Feathers
The feathers have been used for centuries to represent family member's characteristics of peace, tranquility, and a sense of calmness. They are a powerful symbol of hope and a reminder of the beauty of life.
Meaning of the Hohenzollern 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.
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.
Hohenzollern name meaning and origin
Hohenzollern is a German noble family that rose to prominence in the Middle Ages and became one of the most powerful dynasties in Europe. They ruled over various territories in what is now Germany for centuries, including the Kingdom of Prussia and the German Empire. The family played a significant role in shaping European history and politics.
History of family crests like the Hohenzollern 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.
Hohenzollern name variations and their meaning
The family name Hohenzollern has various variations across different regions and languages. In German, it is commonly spelled as Hohenzollern, which is the most recognized form of the name. However, in English, it is often written as Hohenzollern as well. In French, the name is spelled as Hohenzollern, while in Spanish it is written as Hohenzollern. These variations in spelling can be attributed to the different phonetic rules and alphabets of each language.
Furthermore, within the Hohenzollern family itself, there are different branches that have developed their own variations of the name. For example, the Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen branch uses the additional surname "Sigmaringen" to distinguish themselves from other branches. Similarly, the Hohenzollern-Hechingen branch incorporates the name of the town "Hechingen" into their surname.
Overall, the variations of the Hohenzollern family name reflect the diverse linguistic and historical influences that have shaped the family's identity across different regions and branches.
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
