A record of documented arms, meaning and origin, researched for the Stefani family of Italy.
Reg. 4318 · 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
Where the Stefani Arms Were Recorded
Bologne
Map of Italy showing where the Stefani arms are recorded
The Stefani 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 Stefani 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 Stefani Family in Italy
The surname Stefani originates from the Greek name Stephanos, which translates to crown or garland. Over many centuries, this name spread throughout Italy as it became associated with Saint Stephen, the first Christian martyr. By the late eighteenth century, the family had established a documented presence in the city of Bologna. During this period, Bologna was a prominent center for trade, education, and administration within the Papal States. Families living in the city at that time were often deeply integrated into the local urban economy, working as merchants, artisans, or minor officials. The presence of the Stefani name in Bologna by 1775 suggests that the family was part of the stable middle class that helped maintain the social and economic life of the region during the Enlightenment era.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Stephanos
Greek word meaning crown, garland, or wreath.
This name
StefaniDerived from the Greek term for a crown, symbolizing victory or honor.
also spelled
Stephani
Stefanny
Related arms
Stefauinivariant spelling
Stephanivariant spelling
Documented Sources
J. B. Rietstap, Armorial Général, Gouda: G. B. van Goor Zonen, 1884–87
De Felice, Emidio. Dizionario dei cognomi italiani. 1978
Fucile, Roberto. I cognomi d'Italia: Dizionario storico ed etimologico. 1987
Archivio di Stato di Bologna, Stato civile della Restaurazione
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
