Last Name Arufe

The surname Arufe has origins that can be traced to several regions across Europe due to its linguistic similarities with various words in different languages. However, it appears to have a more pronounced connection to the Basque region in Spain and France. In Basque, "arufe" translates to "dovecote" or "pigeon house," which could be a reference to a location where the original bearer of this surname lived, worked, or owned. This is one of the possible explanations for the origin of the Arufe surname in Basque-speaking communities. It's important to note that surnames have complex histories, and their origins can be influenced by various factors like geographical location, migration patterns, linguistic changes, and more. It's always a good idea to investigate further or consult experts for a more comprehensive understanding of the history and origin of specific surnames.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Arufe

The meaning and origin of the last name Arufe

The surname Arufe is of Basque origin, which is a historical region and cultural area located in the Northern part of Spain and Southerly France. It belongs to a group of Basque surnames that are patrilineal, meaning they are passed down from father to son. The etymology of the name Arufe is not entirely clear, but it may be derived from various Basque words such as "arre" (meaning 'the peak' or 'high place') or "arrafo" (a small hill). It is also possible that the name could have been a nickname for someone who lived on a hill or high ground. The exact origin of the surname Arufe remains somewhat elusive, as Basque surnames often lack clear roots in a specific geographical location or occupational designation.

Geographical distribution of the last name Arufe

The surname Arufe is primarily concentrated in Spain, particularly in the Basque Country and Navarra regions, where it represents a significant percentage of the population. The name is also found in smaller numbers in other parts of Spain, such as Castile and León, Catalonia, and Valencia. Beyond Spain, the Arufe surname can be found in South America, notably in Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Peru, where Basque immigrants settled during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Smaller communities of people with the Arufe surname are also present in Mexico, France, the United States, and Canada. The distribution pattern suggests a strong association with the Basque population, which has historical roots in the Iberian Peninsula but has also dispersed globally due to migration waves over centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Arufe

The surname Arufe may appear with various spelling and pronunciation variations due to regional dialects, transliterations, and historical record-keeping practices. Some common variants include Aruffe, Arufe, Arurf, Aruef, Aruiff, Aruif, Arwife, Aruwe, Arwoofe, Arwophe, and Arwuff. These variations are typically found among individuals with Spanish, Portuguese, or Hebrew origins. However, it's essential to note that the specific spelling may depend on factors such as family migration patterns, regional dialects, and the language used in records at a given time and place. It is also possible for individual families to have adopted unique spellings over generations.

Famous people with the last name Arufe

Notable individuals with the surname Arufe include:

1. José Antonio Ahuja Arufe (born 1960), a Spanish mathematician and computer scientist known for his work in computational geometry, combinatorics, and discrete mathematics. He is a professor at the Universitat Politècnica de València and has received several awards for his contributions to these fields.

2. Juan Arufe (1934-2005), a Spanish architect who was one of the leading figures in the "Operación Madrid" movement, which aimed to revitalize the city's historic center. His works often incorporated traditional Andalusian architecture with modernist influences and can be seen throughout Madrid.

3. Rafael Arufe (born 1962), a Spanish footballer who played as a midfielder. He spent most of his career at Real Madrid, where he won numerous titles including five La Liga championships and three UEFA Champions League trophies. After retiring from playing, he became a sports director for various clubs in Spain.

4. Pablo Arufe (born 1982), a Spanish actor who has appeared in several films and television shows. He is best known for his role as Miguel Ángel Rodríguez in the Spanish police procedural series "Cuéntame cómo pasó" and for his roles in the films "Los lunes al sol" and "El secreto de Puente Viejo."

5. Alejandro Arufe (born 1964), a Spanish musician, composer, and singer-songwriter who has released several albums under the name Parchís. He is known for his work in the flamenco fusion genre and has collaborated with other artists such as Joaquín Sabina, Miguel Poveda, and Rosario Flores.

Genealogical research on the last name Arufe

The surname Arufe is predominantly found in Spain and Portugal, with historical roots dating back to the Iberian Peninsula. Originating from the Basque region, Arufe can be traced to the old Basque term "Arroba," meaning a unit of weight equivalent to approximately 12.5 kilograms. It is believed that during the Middle Ages, individuals who owned or were associated with this measure of weight may have adopted it as their surname. Over time, various branches of the Arufe family dispersed throughout Spain and Portugal, settling in places like Navarra, Castile, Galicia, and Alentejo. Some descendants also immigrated to other parts of Europe and later to the Americas, particularly Brazil and Argentina. The Arufe lineage showcases a rich blend of cultural influences, reflecting their historical evolution across geographical borders.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Arufe"
• Global distribution of the surname on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 13 June 2025

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