Last Name Braulio

The surname Braulio is of Spanish and Portuguese origin. It is derived from a given name, Braulio, which is the Latinate form of the Visigothic name Bragalaf, meaning "exalted sword." This name was popular among early Christians and was borne by several saints, including Saint Braulio of Saragossa, a bishop who lived in the 6th century. Over time, the name Braulio became a common surname in Spain and Portugal.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Braulio

The meaning and origin of the last name Braulio

The surname Braulio is of Spanish origin, derived from the male given name Braulio, which has its roots in the ancient Visigothic language. The name Braulio is believed to be a derivative of "bravus" or "brave," indicating a warrior or strong individual. In the early Christian period, Saint Braulio of Saragossa (died 554 AD) was a prominent figure who served as the bishop of Saragossa in present-day Spain. It is possible that the surname originated from his renowned reputation and influence during that time. Over centuries, the name has been passed down through generations, becoming a widely recognized Spanish surname.

Geographical distribution of the last name Braulio

The surname Braulio has a predominant distribution in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly in Spain and various Latin American nations like Mexico, Colombia, Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Cuba, Venezuela, and Peru. It is most common in regions with significant Spanish influence, suggesting that it originated from the Iberian Peninsula. However, its presence can also be found in other parts of the world due to immigration, such as the United States, where people with this surname are primarily concentrated in states like Florida, New York, and California, which have large Hispanic populations. Braulio is a relatively uncommon last name globally but holds significant cultural importance within Spanish-speaking communities.

Variants and spellings of the last name Braulio

The surname Braulio has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in regional pronunciation and translation. Here are some common versions:

* Braulio (Spanish)
* Bralio (Portuguese)
* Brauley (English)
* Bräulio (German)
* Breaulio (French)
* Brauilo (Italian)

In addition, some individuals may have altered the spelling of their name over time or through migration, leading to variations such as Braly, Braule, Braulo, and Brauly. It's important to note that these variations can lead to difficulties in genealogical research, as records may not always be consistent.

Famous people with the last name Braulio

Notable individuals bearing the surname Braulio include:

1. Braulio Amado (born 1946), a Brazilian poet and literary critic. He has published numerous works and won several prestigious awards for his contributions to literature.

2. Braulio Estima (born 1980), a Brazilian Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner and mixed martial artist. He is considered one of the best BJJ competitors in the world, holding multiple championship titles.

3. Braulio Castillo Jr. (born 1965), an American professional wrestler better known by his ring name Big Boss Man. He had a successful career in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and the World Championship Wrestling (WCW).

4. Braulio Luna (born 1929), a Mexican composer, arranger, and conductor who has made significant contributions to mariachi music. He has received numerous awards for his work.

5. Braulio Mercado (born 1970), a Mexican professional boxer known as "El Chivo." He held multiple world championships in two weight classes during his career.

Genealogical research on the last name Braulio

The surname Braulio is relatively uncommon and has origins traced back to the Iberian Peninsula, particularly Portugal and Spain, where it is believed to have been patronymic, derived from the given name Braulio. This name itself is of Germanic origin, from the elements "brau" (brave or bold) and "wald" (rule).

In Portugal, the surname Braulio has been recorded since the 16th century, with early records including João Braulio de Almeida, a notable figure in the 16th-century Portuguese Inquisition. In Spain, the name has been documented since the 17th century, with figures such as Diego Braulio y Velázquez serving as Archbishop of Toledo in the 17th and 18th centuries.

The surname Braulio has also been found in Brazil, where it was likely introduced by Portuguese immigrants. Notable Brazilians with this surname include Braulio Araújo de Melo, a Brazilian statesman who served as Minister of the Empire and Senator, and Braulio Alves de Souza Freire, a cardinal of the Roman Catholic Church.

Today, the surname Braulio can be found in various parts of the world, reflecting its historical dispersion from the Iberian Peninsula.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Braulio"
• 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 : 27 July 2025

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