A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Pensabene family of Italy.
Reg. 2497 · Italian, P–S
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
bearStrength, cunning and protection of kin
arrowReadiness for battle, and affliction endured
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
Colours
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Black (Sable)Means: Constancy
Gold (Or)Means: Generosity
Red (Gules)Means: Military strength
Historical info
Source
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Blazon (the actual original written record)
“D'arg. à un ours ramp. de sa., le corps percé de trois flèches au nat., posées en barres, les pointes en bas, l'une sur l'autre; au chef d'azur, ch. de trois fleurs-de-lis d'or, rangées entre les quatre pendants d'un lambel de gu.”
ItalyBologne, c. 1775
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Map of Italy showing where the Pensabene arms are recorded
The Pensabene arms were recorded in Bologne, c. 1775.
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 Italy in this period.
Alvise Giovanni Mocenigo
Sovereign of the period
Alvise Giovanni Mocenigo
1763–1778
Reigning in Italy when the Pensabene arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Italy
In the Italian states, coats of arms were often used by noble families to show their status and history. These symbols were passed down through the generations to all legitimate male descendants. Younger branches of a family usually kept the original design but sometimes added small changes to distinguish their specific line from the main branch.
Granting authority
Various local rulers and city governments controlled the use of coats of arms across the different Italian states.
How they got arms
Families often assumed their own arms or received them as official grants from local lords, popes, or city councils.
Where arms were recorded
Arms were recorded in local city archives or private family books rather than in one single national register.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Italy.
Origin & History of the Pensabene Family in Italy
The surname Pensabene carries a distinct meaning rooted in the Italian language, as it is composed of the words "pensa" and "bene," which translate to "think well." This suggests that the name may have originally functioned as a nickname for an individual known for their thoughtful nature, wisdom, or careful decision-making. By the year 1775, historical records confirm that members of the Pensabene family were established in the city of Bologna. During this period, Bologna was a prominent center for trade and intellectual life within the Papal States. Families living in the city at that time often participated in the local guilds or the vibrant academic culture of the University of Bologna. As the family grew, they became part of the social fabric of the region, carrying a name that served as a constant reminder of the value placed on clear and positive thinking.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Pensa bene
Latin roots pensare meaning to weigh or consider and bene meaning well.
This name
PensabeneRefers to a person who thinks carefully or considers matters thoroughly before acting.
also spelled
Pensabene
Pensabeny
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
De Felice, Emidio. Dizionario dei cognomi italiani. 1978
Archivio di Stato di Bologna. Stato civile della Restaurazione, Bologna. 1775
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
bearStrength, cunning and protection of kin
arrowReadiness for battle, and affliction endured
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
bearStrength, cunning and protection of kin
arrowReadiness for battle, and affliction endured
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
