Map of Italy showing where the Pignatelli arms are recorded
The Pignatelli arms were recorded in Rome, 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 Pignatelli 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 Pignatelli Family in Italy
The Pignatelli family name originates from the southern regions of Italy, where it became deeply rooted in the social and political life of the Kingdom of Naples. The name is believed to derive from the Italian word "pigna," which refers to a pinecone, suggesting that the family may have originally been associated with a specific location or landmark marked by pine trees. By the time the family established a prominent presence in Rome during the late eighteenth century, they had already secured a reputation as influential members of the Italian nobility. Their move to the capital in 1775 placed them at the center of papal and aristocratic circles, where they served in various administrative and diplomatic roles. Throughout this era, the Pignatelli name was synonymous with significant land ownership and a long-standing tradition of public service that allowed the family to maintain their status across generations.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Pignatta
An Italian term for a cooking pot or earthenware vessel.
This name
PignatelliDerived from a nickname for a potter or someone who made cooking pots.
also spelled
Peenyateli
Related arms
Bernardsimilar arms
Cousse (de la) d'Arcelotsimilar arms
Kochsimilar arms
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
Amante, Bruto. La Sardegna e il dominio sabaudo. 1899
Cantù, Cesare. Storia degli Italiani. 1857
De Lellis, Carlo. Discorsi postumi del signor Carlo De Lellis di alcune nobili famiglie del Regno di Napoli. 1671
Archivio di Stato di Napoli, Archivio Pignatelli di Monteleone
Archivio Segreto Vaticano, Fondo Pignatelli
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
cupFaith, office, and a trust discharged
fessThe military belt, and readiness to serve
mulletThe third son, and a divine quality from above
cupFaith, office, and a trust discharged
