FERT

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

FERT, the motto of the Royal House of Savoy, or Reale Casa di Savoia in the Italian language, and of the former Kingdom of Italy or Regno d'Italia, was adopted by King Vittorio Amedeo II (1666–1732).

It appeared for the first time on the collar of the Supreme Order of the Most Holy Annunciation or Ordine Supremo della Santissima Annunziata, the primary dynastic order of the kingdom. This ceased to be a national order when Italy became a republic in 1946. The order remains under the jurisdiction of the head of the House of Savoy however, as hereditary Sovereign and Grand Master.

Seen here on the arms of the House and former Kingdom
Seen here on the arms of the House and former Kingdom

The meaning of the letters has been a matter of some controversy, to which a number of interpretations have been offered. The motto is believed an acronym of:—

  • Foedere et Religione Tenemur (Latin, trans. We are held together by [the constitutional] pact and by religion);

although others have suggested:—

  • Fortitudo Eius Rhodum Tenuit (Latin, trans. His strength preserved Rhodes or By his bravery he conquered Rhodes), referring to the victory of Duke Amadeo V (1249–1323), who fought against the Saracens at the siege of Rhodes in 1310; or either
  • Fortitudo Eius Republicam Tenet (Latin, trans. His bravery [or strength] preserves [or defends] the Republic); or
  • Fides Est Regni Tutela (Latin, trans. Faith is the protector of our Kingdom).

It has also been suggested that the letters are actually the third person singular of the present indicative tense of the Latin verb ferre, which would indicate that the Royal House is supported by the bond of faith sworn to the Virgin Mary. It sometimes appeared repeated three times, as it was understood as having three different meanings.

Languages