Last Name Cladera

The last name "Cladera" is of Spanish origin. It derives from the word "cladero," which means a "little field" or "small enclosure" in Spanish. This surname was likely given to someone who lived near such a place, or perhaps it was used as a nickname for someone who had a particular occupation related to fields or enclosures. The use of surnames became more common in Spain during the Middle Ages when they were introduced to differentiate between people with the same first name.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Cladera

The meaning and origin of the last name Cladera

The surname Cladera is of Spanish origin, derived from the Old Greek "klados," which means twig or branch. It is a toponymic surname, indicating that it was likely first used by someone who lived near a place named for such features in the landscape, like a grove or wooded area. The name Cladera can also be found in other countries with significant Spanish influence, such as Puerto Rico and Cuba. Over time, variations of the name have emerged due to factors such as local dialects, scribal errors, and migration patterns, including Claderas, Clarada, and Claradin. The name has been borne by notable figures throughout history, reflecting its longstanding use and continuity in Spanish-speaking communities.

Geographical distribution of the last name Cladera

The surname Cladera is primarily concentrated in Spain, particularly in regions such as Castile-La Mancha and Valencia. According to genealogical databases, it is one of the most common surnames in these areas. Additionally, smaller clusters of the Cladera family can be found in other Spanish provinces, including Madrid, Toledo, and Zaragoza. Outside of Spain, there are also occurrences of the name in Mexico, where it may have been brought by Spanish immigrants during the colonial period. In the United States, Texas appears to host a significant number of individuals with the Cladera surname, possibly due to continued immigration from Mexico or descendants of earlier immigrants. The distribution of the Cladera family, therefore, spans primarily across Spain and parts of Latin America, with a notable presence in the U.S., particularly Texas.

Variants and spellings of the last name Cladera

The surname Cladera has several variations and spellings in different regions and historical periods. Some of these include: Claderas, Clareras, Cledera, Cladaira, and Cladier. Each variation may be more common in specific geographical areas or among certain ethnic groups. For example, the spelling "Claderas" is prevalent in Spain, while "Cledera" is found primarily in France and its territories. The name's origin is uncertain, but it likely derives from a place-name or occupational title, as many surnames do. It's essential to note that the exact history and distribution of these variants can be complex due to factors such as migration, assimilation, and changes in recording practices over time.

Famous people with the last name Cladera

The Cladera surname has been associated with notable figures across various fields. Among them, Salvador Claudio Muñoz Cladera, born in Spain, is an esteemed astronomer known for his work on the structure and evolution of galaxies. In Mexico, Guillermo Cladera y Rodríguez-Monegal, a prominent historian, was instrumental in the development of Mexican historiography during the 20th century. Moreover, Juan Cladera, a Spanish architect, gained recognition for his Modernist designs that contributed significantly to Barcelona's urban landscape. Lastly, Carlos Cladera, a Peruvian economist, served as Minister of Economy and Finance from 1985 to 1987, implementing policies aimed at stabilizing the Peruvian economy following the country's economic crisis in the 1980s. These individuals demonstrate the global impact of the Cladera surname across diverse disciplines.

Genealogical research on the last name Cladera

The surname Cladera has roots in Spain, primarily in the regions of Castile and León, with the highest concentrations found in the provinces of Valladolid, Burgos, Segovia, and Soria. Its origin can be traced back to the Middle Ages when the name was likely derived from a geographical location or a physical feature, as many Spanish surnames were. The earliest records of the Cladera family date back to the 16th century, with the first known bearer being Pedro Cladera in Valladolid around 1530. Throughout history, the Cladera family has been prominently involved in various fields such as agriculture, craftsmanship, and the military. Notable members include Juan Cladera, a knight who served under Philip II of Spain in the late 16th century, and Maria Cladera, an influential figure in the Spanish women's rights movement during the 20th century. The Cladera family tree exhibits a rich tapestry of genealogical connections, reflecting their contributions to Spanish society over centuries.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Cladera"
• 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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