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Last Name Cartaya

What is the origin of the last name Cartaya?

The surname Cartaya is of Spanish origin, specifically from the region of Andalusia. It is a toponymic surname, meaning that it is derived from a place name. In this case, Cartaya is a town located in the province of Huelva, in southwestern Spain. People with the surname Cartaya may have ancestors who lived in or near this town, and adopted the name as a way to distinguish themselves from others in the region.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Cartaya

The meaning and origin of the last name Cartaya

Cartaya is a Spanish surname of toponymic origin, derived from the town of Cartaya in the province of Huelva, Andalusia, Spain. The name Cartaya is believed to have originated from the Arabic word "qartaya," meaning castle or fortress. The town of Cartaya has a rich history dating back to Roman times and is known for its agricultural production, particularly of strawberries and citrus fruits. The surname Cartaya likely indicates someone with ancestral ties to the town of Cartaya, whether as a resident or landowner. Today, individuals with the surname Cartaya can be found not only in Spain but also in other Spanish-speaking countries and beyond, as people from the region emigrated to other parts of the world over the centuries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cartaya

The last name Cartaya is most commonly found in Cuba, particularly in the provinces of Havana, Matanzas, and Santiago de Cuba. It is also present in smaller numbers in other Spanish-speaking countries such as Spain, Venezuela, and the United States. The distribution of the surname Cartaya is relatively concentrated in these regions, with a notable presence in urban areas. In some cases, individuals with the last name Cartaya may have migrated to other countries, contributing to its dispersion outside of Cuba. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Cartaya reflects its origins in Cuba and its continued presence in other Spanish-speaking regions around the world.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cartaya

The last name Cartaya can also be spelled as Cartalla, Cartaia, Cartoya, and Kartaya. These variations may be seen in different regions or countries where the name originated or where individuals with this surname have migrated to. It is common for last names to have different spellings or variations due to factors such as phonetic differences, transliterations, or historical changes in language. Despite the variations in spelling, these names are all related to the original surname Cartaya and may represent different branches or lineages of the same family.

Famous people with the last name Cartaya

Some of the most famous people with the last name Cartaya include award-winning author and illustrator Rafael Cartaya, known for his children's books such as "No Peek!" and "Mi Cocina: A Magic Trace-and-Play Cookbook." Another notable individual is actor and musician Jorge Cartaya, who has appeared in films like "The Lost City" and "Miami Vice." Additionally, journalist and political commentator Julio Cartaya is well-known for his work on various news outlets discussing current events and social issues. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have garnered a following for their talent and achievements.

Genealogical research on the last name Cartaya

The surname Cartaya has origins in Spain and is believed to be of toponymic origin, referring to a place called Cartaya in the Huelva province. The surname may have first been used as a locational surname for individuals who hailed from this region. Research indicates that individuals with the last name Cartaya can be traced back to the Andalusian region of Spain, particularly in the areas surrounding Huelva. The surname Cartaya has likely been passed down through generations, with variations in spelling and pronunciation over time. Additionally, individuals with the surname Cartaya may have ties to the Spanish colonial period, with descendants settling in various parts of the world. Further genealogical research may provide more insight into the specific origins and history of the Cartaya surname.

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 April 2025

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