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Last Name Carella

What is the origin of the last name Carella?

The surname "Carella" is of Italian origin. It is derived from the word "caretto," which means small road or pathway. Over time, it became a surname for people who lived near such small roads or paths. This name is primarily concentrated in regions like Campania, Apulia, and Calabria in Italy.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Carella

The meaning and origin of the last name Carella

The surname Carella is of Italian origin, derived from the Latin word "caerula" which means 'dark blue' or 'sea green'. Over time, it has evolved to become a common Italian surname, often found among coastal communities. As with many Italian surnames, Carella was initially a nickname given to someone who had characteristics associated with the sea, such as hair color, occupation, or place of residence. The name may also have originated from a specific geographical location, perhaps a small village by the sea where the first bearer resided. In contemporary times, the surname Carella is widely distributed across Italy and in Italian-speaking communities worldwide.

Geographical distribution of the last name Carella

The surname Carella has its origins from Southern Italy, primarily concentrated in the Campania and Apulia regions. Historically, it is most prevalent in Naples, Caserta, and nearby provinces within Campania, as well as in Bari, Brindisi, and Taranto in Apulia. The name Carella is also found in smaller numbers in other Italian regions and among the Italian diaspora, particularly in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, France, Spain, Uruguay, and the United States. In these countries, the distribution is often concentrated in urban centers with large Italian immigrant populations. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Carella surname reflects historical patterns of migration from Southern Italy to other parts of the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Carella

The last name Carella can be found with various spelling variations. Some common versions include Carolla, Carolla, Caralla, Carraila, Carayla, Carayla, Carralla, and Karella. These differences in spelling often occur due to regional dialects, transcription errors, or personal preference when anglicizing names of Italian origin. The name Carella is primarily an Italian surname, derived from the word "caraia," which means "small cart" or "wheelbarrow." It may also be a diminutive form of the given name Carolina or other feminine names ending in -caroline.

Famous people with the last name Carella

Peter Caretta, professionally known as Peter Carelli, is an American film and television director, producer, and writer. He is best known for creating and producing the popular television series "Kojak," starring Telly Savalas. Another notable figure with the last name Carella is Salvatore Joseph Carella, an American mobster who served as a high-ranking member of the Gambino crime family in New York City during the 1970s and 1980s. Known as "Toddy," Carella was indicted on RICO charges along with other mobsters in 1986, which eventually led to the downfall of the Gambino family's leadership at that time. Lastly, there is Maria Rosa Carelli, an Argentine professional tennis player who reached a career-high singles ranking of world No. 25 in 1973 and won two WTA titles during her career. She also represented Argentina in the Federation Cup.

Genealogical research on the last name Carella

The Carella surname, originating from Italy, has a rich and varied history. It is most commonly found in regions such as Sicily and Calabria, though it can be traced back to other parts of the country as well. The name Carella is derived from the Italian word "caraia" or "carallo," meaning little chariot or small cart, reflecting an occupation related to transporting goods.

Throughout history, the Carella family has produced notable figures in various fields. In Sicily, Giuseppe Carella was a prominent lawyer and politician during the late 19th century. Meanwhile, in Calabria, the Carellas were involved in the resistance against Spanish rule in the 18th century.

The Carella surname can also be found among diaspora communities, particularly in North and South America, as a result of migration during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, the Carella family continues to flourish around the world, preserving their rich cultural heritage while adapting to new environments. Genealogical research on the Carella surname can provide valuable insights into Italian history and culture.

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 11 June 2025

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