The Barony and Lordship of Leslie
A Norman Legacy in Fife, Scotland
Leslie House, once the grand seat of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie, seen from the historic gardens at dusk.
Welcome to the official site of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie, a title of historic dignity rooted in the ancient soil of Fife, Scotland.
As a Scottish feudal barony with a lineage reaching back through centuries of noble tradition, this site preserves and presents the heritage, heraldry, and continuing legacy of the Barony.
The current holder, Giacomo Merello, Baron and Lord of Leslie, maintains this archive to ensure public access to its historical significance and living tradition.
The Arms of the Baron
The heraldic achievement of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie, displaying the crest, shield, and the motto ‘In Fortitudo Fido’ (‘In Strength I Trust’), reflecting the enduring values of the Leslie lineage.
As granted by Warrant of the Lord Lyon in Scotland on the 30th of April 2025: Azure, an olive branch and oak branch in saltire fructed and leaved Proper throughout, on a chief Or the scales of justice Azure between two maunches Sable. Above the Shield is placed an Helm befitting his degree with a Mantling Azure doubled Or, and on a Wreath of the Liveries is set for Crest a heraldic sea-lion erect Azure, and in an Escrol over the same this Motto
“IN FORTITUDO FIDO”.
About the Barony
Leslie House, Fife, as depicted in an 1836 engraving, reflecting the historic grandeur of the seat of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie.
The Barony and Lordship of Leslie traces its origins to the medieval burgh of Leslie in Fife, a seat of noble heritage intertwined with the history of Scotland itself. Recognised as a Scottish feudal barony, it has been borne by generations of distinguished holders whose legacy continues to this day. This enduring title reflects both territorial tradition and heraldic honour rooted in centuries of legal and historical continuity.
Territorial Designation
A historic map of Fife, Scotland, depicting the region surrounding Leslie, the ancestral seat of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie.
The Barony of Leslie is historically tied to the lands surrounding the royal burgh of Leslie in Fife, Scotland.
The territorial designation reflects the feudal origin of the title, once associated with real jurisdiction and baronial rights over land. Today, this connection remains a vital part of the Barony’s legal character and cultural identity.
The Current Holder
Lord Leslie
The present holder of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie is the Much Hon. Dr. Giacomo Merello, Baron and Lord of Leslie.
As custodian of this historic title, he upholds its traditions while ensuring its legacy remains accessible and relevant in the modern era. His efforts include the preservation of original documents, promotion of Scottish heraldic culture, and engagement in public and scholarly discourse surrounding noble heritage.
Explore the Archives
Explore centuries of Leslie’s heritage within our historic archive, where age-worn scrolls and manuscripts whisper the story of the Barony and Lordship of Leslie.
The Barony’s enduring legitimacy is supported by a collection of original charters, confirmations, and heraldic recognitions preserved across centuries. These documents, drawn from official registries and legal instruments, provide a rare window into the historical and legal foundations of the title.