Meaning of the Prado 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.
Roundel
The roundel is believed to be a symbol from the times of the crusade and represents the family's belief in the importance of justice. It was used as a mark of those who pursued justice with vigor and brought others to justice.
Meaning of the Prado 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.
Red
The red color (known as Gules) traditionally symbolized martyrdom and the historic military strength of family members when called upon in times of war.
Prado name meaning and origin
Prado is a Spanish and Portuguese surname that means "meadow" or "field" in English. It is a toponymic surname derived from various places named Prado in Spain and Portugal.
History of family crests like the Prado 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.
Prado name variations and their meaning
The family name Prado has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Spanish-speaking countries, it is commonly spelled as Prado, which is the original form of the name. However, in other countries, it may be spelled differently. For instance, in Portugal, it is often spelled as Prado, maintaining a similar pronunciation but with a slight variation in spelling. In Italy, the name may be spelled as Prado or Pradosi, adding an Italian touch to the original name. In France, it can be seen as Pradeau or Pradot, reflecting the French influence on the name. Additionally, in English-speaking countries, it may be anglicized as Prade or Prados, adapting to the local language. These variations in spelling demonstrate how the name Prado has been adapted and modified to suit different linguistic and cultural contexts, while still retaining its essence and identity.
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