BORROMEO, FAMIGLIA. – The family originated with the Paduan Vitaliano Vitaliani, who adopted the surname of his wife, Margherita, a native of S. Miniato. He was a banker and, having become extremely wealthy, received in 1445 the title of Count of Arona and ducal councillor.
The senior branch became extinct with s. Carlo (1538–84) and Federico (1535–62), who was appointed general of the Holy Church by his uncle Pio IV. The family line was continued by their uncle Giulio Cesare, who was the father of the famous Cardinal Federico and of Renato (d. 1608). The latter’s nephew, also named Renato (1618–1685), through his marriage to the enormously wealthy Giulia Arese, reunited the family patrimony and added the Arese surname to that of B. for his firstborn son.
The family was honoured by distinguished figures, illustrious family connections, and several cardinals.