BORROMEO, FAMILY. - The family originates from Vitaliano Vitaliani of Padua, who took the surname of his wife Margherita, originally from S. Miniatto. He was a banker and, having become very wealthy, received the title of Count of Arona and ducal councillor in 1445.
The senior branch died out with St Charles (1538–84) and with Federico (1535–62), created general of the Holy Church by his uncle Pius IV. The house was continued by their uncle Giulio Cesare, who was the father of the famous Cardinal Federigo and of Renato (d. 1608). The nephew of this latter, also named Renato (1618–1685), through his marriage to the very wealthy Giulia Arese, augmented the family patrimony and added the surname of Arese to that of Borromeo for the firstborn.
The family was honoured by distinguished figures, illustrious kinships and several cardinals.