Maltese Nobility (6) : Heraldry

Abstract

The Maltese Islands abound with armorial bearings belonging to the local nobility and the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. Unfortunately many Coatsof- Arms were removed from the facades of buildings during the French Occupation of the Islands at the end of the eighteenth century; some, however, did survive and many were restored during the British rule. Any person who has an interest in Maltese Heraldry should take a leisurely stroll through the winding streets of Mdina, the old capital of Malta; in this ancient citadel the Arms of Malta's oldest and noblest families are boldly displayed, families such as the Testaferrata, lnguanez, Bonici, De Piro, SantCassia and Gatto. The floor of the Cathedral at Mdina is another treasure trove for the heraldic enthusiast interested in this aspect of the Maltese Nobility. The floor is made up of scores of ornate memorial slabs each bearing the Coats-of-Arms of Noble Maltese families. Many palazzi and old houses scattered around the Island are decorated with armorial bearings and form a living reminder of our Islands' rich and glorious history.