One of the most significant discoveries in our research: the Finezzi family (under the name "de Fini") are recorded as lords of Chersano — a medieval castle in Istria.
Kršan (Italian: Chersano) is a medieval fortified town in eastern Istria, in modern-day Croatia. The castle sits on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside, about 12 km north of Labin and 22 km southeast of Pazin.
According to Wikipedia's article on Kršan, after the Krotendorfer/Cherstlein family held the castle until 1631, it passed through several noble families. Among the lords listed are "de Fini" — almost certainly the same family as Fino/Finezzi.
The heraldic record states that Giovanni-Francesco Fino distinguished himself in the defence of the castle, town, and territory of Chersano. This aligns with the Wikipedia record of de Fini lordship.
The family name appears to have shifted based on location:
| Fact | Verified? |
|---|---|
| Kršan/Chersano castle existed from 1274 | ✅ Wikipedia, multiple sources |
| "de Fini" listed as lords of Kršan | ✅ Wikipedia |
| Giovanni-Francesco defended Chersano | 📋 Heraldic record only |
| Family originated from Bergamo area | 📋 Heraldic + surname distribution data |
The medieval castle is well-preserved, including:
Possible lead: The gravestones of feudal lords in the church of St. Antun may include Finezzi/Fini family members. An in-person visit or contact with local Croatian historians could be revelatory.