What Is a Spanish Last Name?

Common Features of Spanish Last Names:

Spanish last names are derived from patronymic and matronymic surnames, based on the parents’ first names. The surname “Garcia” means “son of Garcia.”


Origins of Spanish Last Names:

Many Spanish surnames are influenced by German, Italian, and French origins, creating a diverse pool of names. Locational last names like Burgos and Campo signify meanings related to specific places or occupations.


Top Spanish Surnames:

The top 50 Spanish surnames include common names such as García, Fernández, González, Rodríguez, and López, with García being the most popular, representing nearly 20% of Spaniards. Surnames in Spain also bear influences from Arabic words adopted during the Moorish occupation.


Last Name Estimated Population
García 1,459,677
Fernández 1,351,102
González 1,315,844
Rodríguez 1,164,035
López 1,162,116

Uncommon Spanish Last Names:

Examples of less common Spanish last names include Abarca, Alcaraz, Barbero, Cabrera, Candella, Del Campo, Echeverria, and Escarra. These names hold unique meanings, adding to the rich tapestry of Spanish surnames.


What is a common last name in Spanish?

What are some unpopular Spanish last names?

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