Meaning of the Pastrano family crest symbols
Lion (standing)
The lion symbol represents the ferocious nature of family members, their bravery and valor. It is one of the oldest symbols in heraldry and is considered to be one of the most desirable to have on a coat of arms.

Bird - Martlet/Martlette
The martlet bird is a symbol of the speed and agility of family members to act quickly and decisively when needed. They represent the swiftness of thought and action that is necessary to protect and care for one's family.
Meaning of the Pastrano 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.
Yellow/Gold
The gold color (known as Or) represented the noble standing of a family and also stood as a symbol of generosity and those with a giving nature.
Pastrano name meaning and origin
Pastrano is a family name of Spanish origin, often associated with the regions of Spain and Latin America. It may derive from a place name or the term for a bachelor, reflecting historical social or geographic characteristics tied to the family's ancestry.
History of family crests like the Pastrano 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.
Pastrano name variations and their meaning
The family name Pastrano has seen intriguing variations across different regions, reflecting the rich tapestry of linguistic evolution over the centuries. In Spanish-speaking countries, a common variation is Pastrana, which emerged in the 17th century as surnames began to standardize and regional dialects influenced spelling. As families migrated to Latin America, adaptations such as Pastrano became prevalent in the 18th century, highlighting the interplay between indigenous languages and European tongues. In Italy, the name Pastrano has even transformed to Pastrini, showcasing the regional phonetic shifts that occurred as Italian dialects flourished during the Renaissance. By the 19th century, as global migration increased, the name's variations reflected assimilation processes, leading to instances like Pestrano in English-speaking contexts where phonetic simplification took place. These adaptations not only illustrate the journey of the name across borders but also underscore the dynamic nature of language and identity throughout the centuries.
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
