NomOrigine Background

Last Name Arto

What is the origin of the last name Arto?

The last name Arto is of Spanish or possibly Basque origin. It is likely derived from the personal name "Arturo," which is the Spanish form of the name "Arthur." Arthur is a common given name that ultimately comes from the Celtic word "artos," meaning "bear." The surname Arto may have originated as a patronymic surname, meaning it was originally used to indicate the descendants of someone named Arturo.

origin of the last name Arto

Learn more about the origin of the last name Arto

The meaning and origin of the last name Arto

The surname Arto is of Spanish origin, derived from the medieval given name Artus, meaning "bear" in Latin. The name could have been a nickname for someone who was strong or brave like a bear, or it could have been given to someone who worked as a bear keeper or hunter. Another possible origin of the surname is from the Visigothic personal name Artahari, which means "noble treasure" in Old High German. Over time, the name Artus evolved into various forms, such as Arto and Arti, and became a hereditary surname passed down through generations. Today, the surname Arto is relatively rare and can be found primarily in Spanish-speaking countries and regions with historical ties to Spain.

Geographical distribution of the last name Arto

The last name Arto is primarily found in the Basque Country region of Spain, specifically in the provinces of Gipuzkoa and Bizkaia. It is a relatively rare surname, with most individuals bearing this name being of Basque descent. However, there are also some instances of the Arto surname being found in other parts of Spain, particularly in regions with historical ties to the Basque Country, such as Navarra and La Rioja. Outside of Spain, the surname Arto is sparsely distributed, with small pockets of individuals bearing this name in countries such as Argentina, France, and the United States, likely as a result of Basque emigration. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Arto reflects its origins in the Basque Country and its ties to this specific region of Spain.

Variants and spellings of the last name Arto

Arto is a last name that may also be spelled as Artoe or Artoh. Other variations of the surname include Arton, Artoi, and Artaux. In different regions or countries, the name may be further modified as Artó, Artow, or Artto. The surname Arto may also be Anglicized to Artoe or Arteau in English-speaking countries. Additionally, the last name can be found with prefixes or suffixes in some cultures, such as McArto or Artonovich. Despite these variations in spelling and pronunciation, the name Arto typically maintains its distinct sound and origin. The different spellings and variations of the surname reflect the diversity and evolution of names across different languages and cultures.

Famous people with the last name Arto

One famous person with the last name Arto is Isabel Arto, a French actress known for her work in film and theatre. She gained recognition for her performances in critically acclaimed works such as "La Vie d'Adèle" and "Les Garçons Sauvages." Another figure with the last name Arto is Alain Arto, a Spanish-born painter and sculptor known for his abstract and surrealist works. His innovative art pieces have been exhibited in galleries and museums worldwide, earning him a reputation as a groundbreaking artist in the modern art scene. The Arto family has produced a legacy of talented individuals in various creative fields, leaving a lasting impact on the world of entertainment and fine arts.

Genealogical research on the last name Arto

The surname Arto is of Spanish origin, derived from the old Spanish word "arte," meaning art or skill. The Arto family has a long history, with records dating back to the 16th century in Spain. The name is most commonly found in the regions of Catalonia and Valencia. Over the centuries, the Arto family has spread to various parts of the world, including France, where the name is also found. The family has been involved in various professions, including artistry, carpentry, and agriculture. Genealogical research shows that the Arto family has strong connections to other Spanish surnames, such as Garcia, Martinez, and Lopez. Today, individuals with the surname Arto can be found all over the world, continuing the legacy of their ancestors in various fields of expertise.

Share the origin of your last name with your friends

Search the origin of a family name

Enter the surname you are looking for below: