the thought that a ‘grander’ name was required to differentiate themselves from the more commonly heard surnames (therefore, families). It was at this time, that the first armorial representation of the Grimaldi family appeared. Further information on this is explained in the Lozengy Gules and Argent section. Armoured Friars The armoured friars on either side of the shield reflect the creation of Monaco under Grimaldi rule, involving one François Grimaldi also known as the “Malizia”. These supporters serve as a reminder of the victory of François Grimaldi over the Ghibellines, whose failed attempt to guard the Rock of Monaco meant the eventual conquest and consequently, the beginning of Grimaldi dominance over this region in 1297. Symbolically, the monks are a core part of this history because François Grimaldi was said to have disguised himself as one in order to penetrate the fortress without detection, hence, the unusual combination of a religious figure defiantly holding a weapon as a dominant theme in this armorial achievement. January 4 of that year has been regarded as the birth of the Monaco that stands today, where the Grimaldi family still holds significant (if not all) power over this territory, giving great historical value to the symbols associated with this story. With regard to the lineage of this figure, despite François Grimaldi’s familiar surname, the current sovereigns in power today are technically not the direct descendants of the famous “Malizia”; due to the fact that no children were borne from his own marriage, it was his cousin, Rainier I who became his successor and Lord of Monaco. Despite this slight variation in direct blood ties, the armorial achievement still remained very much the same, as the tale of the “Malizia” was a great source of pride for the Monegasque people, especially given the metaphorical significance of the Guelph victory over the Ghibellines. Further, as illustrated in historical records, the armoured monks’ presence on the family achievement has lasted for over 700 years, origins of which are clearly regarded as of legendary status to the Monégasque community, therefore, highly valuable to their heritage. Lozengy Gules and Argent Lozengy gules and argent refers to the repetitive red and silver diamond pattern on the main shield. The meaning behind this particular lozenge points to individuals of noble birth, and accordingly, explain the origins of the House of Grimaldi as a high-ranking family in society. The current-day relevance of