The Savoy, like all noble and aristocratic houses, had a heraldic coat of arms. It was customary for the coat of arms to also bear a motto that distinguished the style, spirit, and behavior of the family. The Savoy dynasty adopted the motto FERT. This was also imprinted on the collar of the Order of the Collar, the highest honor of the house. However, there is no official documentation that precisely indicates the meaning of this motto.
Historians and scholars have proposed various interpretations. Here is a list of the most well-known ones.
FERT interpretation
- Fortitudo Eius Rhodum Tenuit: his strength preserved Rhodes. This would refer to the liberation of Rhodes from the Turkish siege by Amedeo of Savoy (some believe Amedeo IV, others Amedeo V). However, this feat has no historical foundation. In fact, there is no mention in the documents of the Order. Moreover, it appears that no Count of Savoy ever went to Rhodes.
- FERT: Understood as the third person singular present indicative of the Latin verb ‘fero,’ which means to carry or to bear. This hypothesis considers it as an encouragement for the House of Savoy to endure with devotion. It likely refers to the trials and fate they face as a ruling family. Moreover, this type of interpretation could be linked to the renaming of the order as the Order of the Most Holy Annunciation. Another hypothesis traces the origin of the motto to a tournament in which Amedeo VI participated, wearing a collar inscribed with FERT. However, this interpretation does not explain the meaning of the motto.
- Fortitudo Et Robur Taurinensis: Turin’s strength and robustness. Actually, this interpretation is quite unlikely. The reason is that in Latin, ‘fortitudo’ and ‘robur’ (meaning strength/robustness) are practically synonyms.
- Foedere Et Religione Tenemur (we are held together by treaty and religion).
- Fides Est Regni Tutela (faith is the protection of the kingdom)
- There is also a popular and ironic interpretation: Fœmina Erit Ruina Tua (the woman will be your downfall).”