Meaning of the Montagues 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.
Crown
The crown is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols of nobility. Its use was prevalent since medieval times and signified authority in relation to those of royal lineage, high societal standing and military ranking.
Meaning of the Montagues 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.
Blue
The blue color (known as Azure) represented the family's loyal and truthful nature and their reputation for trustworthiness during the middle ages.
Montagues name meaning and origin
Montagues is a surname of French origin, derived from a place name in La Manche, Normandy. It is associated with the Old French term "mont", meaning hill, and "agues", meaning sharp. Therefore, the name Montagues could be interpreted as "sharp hill". It was typically given to individuals who lived near such geographical features.
History of family crests like the Montagues 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.
Montagues name variations and their meaning
The family name Montagues has various variations across different regions and cultures. In some cases, it may be spelled as Montague, without the "s" at the end. This variation is commonly found in English-speaking countries. Another variation is Montagut, which is more commonly seen in Spanish-speaking regions. The name may also be spelled as Montagu, which is a variation often found in France and other European countries. Additionally, there are variations that incorporate a prefix or suffix, such as Lamontague or Montaguer. These variations may have originated from different branches of the family or through the influence of other languages and cultures. Regardless of the spelling or variation, the name Montagues has a rich history and is associated with noble families and prominent individuals throughout the centuries. It is fascinating to see how the name has evolved and adapted across different regions, reflecting the diverse nature of the Montagues family.
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
