SCIBERRAS

In various forms (including Xeber(r)as and Sceberas) we find this surname listed on the Militia Roster of 1417.

There are two compelling possible origins for this surname, both of Siculo-Arabic origin. The first refers to a place name xa ‘b er-râs, meaning ‘the spur of the headland’, and the second to xahab er-râs or ‘ashen-headed’ and referring to a person with white hair.

A surname linked to nobility from the Late Middle Ages,  Valletta was built on a promontory owned by the Sciberras family. This is referenced in the heraldry, with a suit armour in or a clear indicator of nobility.