Map of England showing where the Malfitano arms are recorded
The Malfitano arms were recorded in England, c. 1620.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in York.
Yorkshire is the largest of the English counties, and it held more gentry families than any other. Land there was split among a great many households rather than a few, so a great many of them carried arms.
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 England in this period.
James VI and I
Sovereign of the period
James VI and I
1603–1625
Reigning in England when the Malfitano arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in England
English heraldry allowed arms to be shared by all legitimate descendants of the original owner. These symbols were treated as personal property that moved through the generations to all children. While the eldest son kept the original design, other family members could use the same shield without needing to change it or register their own unique versions.
Granting authority
The College of Arms in London has regulated the use of coats of arms throughout England and Wales since 1484.
How they got arms
Families typically obtained their coats of arms through a formal grant from the Crown or by proving their ancient right to them.
Where arms were recorded
All official coats of arms are recorded in the registers kept at the College of Arms, which date back to the fifteenth century.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of England.
Origin & History of the Malfitano Family in England
The name Malfitano originates from the Amalfi Coast in southern Italy, where it was historically used to describe someone who hailed from the town of Amalfi. The linguistic roots of the name suggest a connection to the maritime traditions of this region, as the town was once a powerful independent republic known for its extensive trade networks across the Mediterranean. By the early 17th century, members of the family had migrated far from their Mediterranean origins, establishing a presence in York by 1620. This movement reflects a broader trend of Italian merchants and travelers moving into Northern Europe during the Renaissance and early modern period. These early family members likely integrated into the local economy of York, bringing with them the distinct cultural and professional heritage of their Italian ancestors.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Amalfi
A coastal town in the Campania region of Italy.
This name
MalfitanoAn inhabitant or person originating from the town of Amalfi.
also spelled
Malfytt
Malfitz
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
Cappelletti, Licurgo. Storia della città di Amalfi e delle sue leggi. 1876
Camera, Matteo. Memorie storico-diplomatiche dell'antica città e ducato di Amalfi. 1876
Borthwick Institute for Archives, University of York. Archbishop of York Diocesan Records
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chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
