Last Name Cazali

The surname Cazali has its roots in Italy and specifically in the region of Lombardy. It is an occupational name derived from the Latin word "cascare" which means to churn or to make butter or cheese. Over time, it became associated with various professions related to dairy products such as cheesemaker, butcher, or dairyman. Therefore, a person bearing this surname might have been involved in one of these occupations in the past. It is important to note that the exact origin can vary between different families due to factors such as migration and assimilation.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cazali

The meaning and origin of the last name Cazali

The surname Cazali is primarily of Italian origin, with potential roots in other Mediterranean regions as well. In Italian, the term "cassale" means "small castle", indicating a geographical location near a fortification or a place where such structures once stood. Over time, this toponymic name was passed down from generation to generation, becoming a widespread surname among Italian families. The variations in spelling, such as Cassali, Casali, and Cazali, reflect the regional dialects and phonetic changes that occurred over centuries. This surname is also found among populations outside of Italy, as a result of migration or assimilation, particularly in countries with significant Italian diaspora communities.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cazali

The surname Cazali is primarily distributed in Italy and Brazil. In Italy, it is most prevalent in the regions of Lombardy, Emilia-Romagna, and Tuscany, reflecting its historical roots in these areas. A significant number of Italian immigrants to Brazil brought this surname with them during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, contributing to a substantial population of Cazalis in Brazil today, particularly in the states of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Paraná. Additionally, small numbers of people bearing this name can be found in other countries, such as France, Switzerland, and Argentina, due to historical migration patterns. Overall, Cazali is predominantly an Italian and Brazilian surname, with a geographical concentration in the above-mentioned regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cazali

The surname Cazali has several variations and spellings. These include: Casali, Casarli, Casarle, Cassaroli, Kassaroli, Kazarli, Kazarolli, Kazarule, Kasalini, and Kasarine, among others. These variations can be found across different regions and countries, especially within Italian-speaking communities, due to factors such as regional dialects, transcription errors, and individual preferences in spelling. It is important to note that these variations do not necessarily indicate different origins or lineages; rather, they represent slight differences in the way the same name has been passed down through generations or recorded by various scribes over time.

Famous people with the last name Cazali

The Cazali surname is primarily associated with individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields. One notable figure is Michel Cazalet (1923-2014), a French architect and urban planner, known for his work on the reconstruction of Saint-Denis after World War II. In music, there's Giuliano Cazaldo (born 1975), an Italian musician and producer who has collaborated with artists such as Elisa, Laura Pausini, and Tiziano Ferro. From the world of sports, there is Roberto Cazala (born 1948), a Brazilian volleyball player who won gold medals at the 1976 Montreal Olympics and the 1980 Moscow Olympics. In literature, Ricardo Cazal (1952-2015) was a Chilean writer, poet, and journalist. Lastly, in academia, Giuseppe Cazalilla (1930-2016), an Italian mathematician, made significant contributions to the theory of algebraic curves and their applications.

Genealogical research on the last name Cazali

The surname Cazali originates from Italy and is predominantly found in the Lombardy region. Historical records show that it was initially spelled as Casalino, indicating its roots in a small or new settlement. The earliest known bearer of this name was Giacomo di Casalino, who lived during the 14th century. Over time, the name evolved to Casali and later to Cazali due to phonetic and orthographic changes. The family played significant roles in their local communities, with many members serving as artisans, farmers, and military personnel. Notable descendants include Bartolomeo Cazali, a prominent architect from Milan during the 16th century. Genealogical records suggest that the Cazali family has a rich history dating back several centuries, with many branches dispersed throughout Italy and some reaching other parts of Europe due to migration and marriage.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "cazali"
• 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 : 15 June 2025

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