Varella family crest and coat of arms

Varella is a Galician and Portuguese surname of toponymic origin, derived from various place names in Spain and Portugal. It may also have originated as a variant of the surname Varela.

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.

The family name Varella, while rooted in its original form, has seen numerous fascinating variations as it traversed different cultures and languages over the centuries. In Italy, particularly from the 16th century onward, one may encounter the variant Varelli, which emerged as a diminutive form, reflecting a trend of endearing suffixes that became popular in familial naming practices. Moving into the Iberian Peninsula, the name transformed into Varela during the late 17th century, significantly influenced by the Spanish phonetic system, where the 'll' sound is often simplified to 'l' or influenced by local dialects. In the Portuguese context, a similar transformation resulted in variations such as Varelo, where the '-o' suffix denotes a masculine connotation, a feature of Portuguese linguistic evolution throughout the 18th century. In the South American landscape, particularly in Brazil, the name Varelo also took on local characteristics, adapting to the Portuguese-influenced Brazilian culture, while surnames such as Varellano came to represent individuals hailing from specific geographic areas in the late 19th century. Additionally, the migration patterns of the 20th century saw Varella morph into even broader forms such as Varelas among Portuguese-speaking communities, showcasing the dynamic nature of surnames as they adapt to new environments and language influences. Each of these variations not only illustrates the name's linguistic journey but also reflects the socio-cultural interactions that shaped the identities of those who carry it, offering a richer comprehension of the family's heritage and its global tapestry over time.

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