Barony of Gomerino
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
The Barony of Gomerino is a fiefdom in Malta, part of the ancient system of Maltese nobility. As of 2005, the Baroness is Myriam Chemel Callus Testaferrata Abela. Her daughter, Elizabeth Chemel, is Baronessina di Gomerino, the official heir.
[edit] Origin and succession
The fief, also known as "Sant Antonio tal-Ghemieri," was originally conferred in allodium by the Grand Master Alof de Wignacourt on Gio Maria Cassia from which it was inherited by his grand niece, Beatrice, who was confirmed as Baroness in 1710.
The present grant was jointly created to Paolo Testaferrata and his wife Beatrice Cassia, ninth Baroness di Castel Cicciani (See the history of Cassia) on 24th December 1710, with remainder to their descendants in perpetuity, each holder of the title having the right to nominate a successor, in default of nomination to the first born male descendant, and in absence of male issue, to the first born female descendant.
The title succeeded from father to son, with expectations of nominations to younger sons until 1959, with the death of the ninth Baron, who was unmarried. The title was succeeded by his sister, who in turn was succeeded by her eldest niece, currently the present holder of the title.
[edit] References
- Said Vassallo, C.M., Unpublished research papers.
- Said Vassallo, C.M.,Charles Said-Vassallo's Research site and Maltese Nobility web site.
- Montalto, J., "The Nobles of Malta-1530-1800", Midsea Books Ltd, Malta, 1980.
- Burkes Peerage, Baronetage and Knightage of the UK.- 1914 ed.
- Cassar Desain, Marchese L.A., " Genealogia della famiglia Testaferrata di Malta." Malta, 1880.
- Gauci,C.A.," The Genealogy and Heraldry of the Noble Families of Malta", Gulf Publishing Ltd, Malta, 1981.
- Gauci,C.A.," The Genealogy and Heraldry of the Noble Families of Malta, Volume Two", Publishers Enterprises Group (PEG) Ltd, 1992.
- Gauci,C.A and Mallet, P.,"The Palaeologos Family- A Genealogical Review" ,Publishers Enterprises Group (PEG) Ltd, 1985
- Gauci, C.A.," A Guide to the Maltese Nobility", Publishers Enterprise Group (PEG) Ltd, Malta, 1986.
- Giles Ash, S., "The Nobility of Malta", Publishers Enterprises Group (PEG) Ltd, 1988.
