A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Stefanelli family of Italy.
Reg. 1669 · Italian, T–V
Coat of Arms & Family Crest Details
Symbols on this shield
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
cometA great event foretold, and swift renown
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
Colours
Silver (Argent)Means: Peace and sincerity
Blue (Azure)Means: Loyalty and truth
Green (Vert)Means: Hope
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 mont de trois coupeaux de sin., mouv. de la p., acc. en chef d'une comète d'or; 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 Stefanelli arms are recorded
The Stefanelli 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 Stefanelli 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 Stefanelli Family in Italy
The surname Stefanelli is a patronymic name, which means it originated from the given name Stefano, the Italian version of Stephen. By adding the suffix "elli," the name indicates a connection to the descendants or the family of a man named Stefano. Historical records confirm that the Stefanelli family was well-established in the city of Bologna by 1775. During this period, Bologna was a major center for trade and education within the Papal States. Families like the Stefanellis often played active roles in the local economy and urban life of the city. As the family grew, they became part of the social fabric of the Emilia-Romagna region, contributing to the professional and civic development of Bologna over several generations.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Stephanos
Greek word meaning crown, garland, or wreath.
This name
StefanelliA patronymic surname derived from the given name Stefano, meaning one who is crowned.
also spelled
Stephani
Stefanny
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
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
cometA great event foretold, and swift renown
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
mountThe ground held, and steadfastness upon it
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
labelThe eldest son, during his father's life
cometA great event foretold, and swift renown
fleur de lisPurity, light, and the sixth son
