Meaning of the Santana 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.
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 Santana 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.
Santana name meaning and origin
Santana is a Spanish and Portuguese surname that means "holy" or "sacred." It is derived from the Latin word "sanctus," which has the same meaning.
History of family crests like the Santana 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.
Santana name variations and their meaning
The family name Santana has various variations across different regions and cultures. In Spanish-speaking countries, it is commonly spelled as Santana, which is also the most widely recognized form. However, there are slight variations such as Santanna or Sant'Ana, which are also used in some Spanish-speaking communities. In Portuguese-speaking countries, the name is often spelled as Sant'Ana or Santanna. In Italy, the name is sometimes written as Sant'Anna or Santanna, reflecting the Italian influence on the surname. In English-speaking countries, the name is typically spelled as Santana, but there may be variations like Santanna or Sant'Ana. These variations may have emerged due to different pronunciations or transliterations of the name. Regardless of the spelling, the name Santana has gained popularity worldwide, thanks to its association with the renowned Latin rock guitarist Carlos Santana.
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