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Last Name Culcasi

What is the origin of the last name Culcasi?

The surname "Culcasi" is of Italian origin. It is derived from a place name, most likely located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Surnames originated as a way to identify individuals within communities, often based on characteristics like occupation, place of origin, or physical traits. In this case, "Culcasi" may have been used to denote someone from a specific village or town called Culcasi. However, the exact origin can vary depending on the specific family and region. It's always best to consult genealogical resources for more precise information.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Culcasi

The meaning and origin of the last name Culcasi

The surname Culcasi is an Italian patronymic name derived from the given name Culcasio or Colcasio, which is thought to have Germanic origins. The name is believed to be composed of the elements "kolk" (meaning column) and "hari" (meaning army or warrior), thus suggesting a meaning similar to "soldier of the pillar."

Historically, the Culcasi family originated in the region of Emilia-Romagna, where the name can still be found today. The earliest known records of the surname date back to the 13th century, when members of the family were documented in the city of Bologna. Over time, the name spread across Italy, with significant populations found in Tuscany and Lazio as well.

In modern times, the Culcasi family has made notable contributions to various fields, including politics, education, and the arts, reflecting their long history and rich cultural heritage. The surname remains popular in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Culcasi

The surname Culcasi is predominantly found in Italy, primarily in the central region of Umbria, with significant concentrations in the provinces of Terni and Perugia. It is also present in smaller numbers in other parts of Italy, including the regions of Lazio, Abruzzo, Marche, and Molise. The name Culcasi is less common outside of Italy, with some occurrences in South America, particularly Argentina, possibly due to Italian immigration during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, there are a few families bearing this surname in France, possibly due to historical ties between Italy and Provence. Overall, the geographical distribution of the Culcasi surname is primarily concentrated in central Italy, with significant diaspora communities in South America and a smaller presence in other European countries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Culcasi

The surname Culcasi has several variants and spellings due to differences in transcription and regional pronunciation. Some common variations include Culcasio, Colcasio, Collacasio, Collacasso, and Colcasa. Additionally, the name may appear with diacritical marks in Italian, such as Culcasi (with an accent over the 'i'), Culcàsi, or Culcássi. It is also possible to find this surname under slightly modified forms, such as Culcasio-Leone or Leone-Culcasio, when it has been combined with another family name through marriage. These variations reflect the diversity in the spelling and pronunciation of Italian surnames, particularly those originating from smaller towns and villages.

Famous people with the last name Culcasi

The Culcasis are an interesting family of notable individuals across various fields. In the world of sports, Fabio Culcasi, a former professional soccer player, gained fame for his career in Italy and Switzerland from the mid-90s to the early 2000s, playing for teams such as AC Milan and Lazio.

In the realm of arts and entertainment, Giuseppe Culcasi is recognized for his contributions as a painter and sculptor, with works inspired by Surrealism and Symbolism. His art has been exhibited in numerous galleries across Europe.

Lastly, in the academic sphere, Maria Culcasi is a renowned scholar in the field of linguistics, specifically focusing on Romanian and Balkan languages. She has authored several influential books and articles, and is currently a professor at the University of Bucharest. The Culcasis' diverse accomplishments demonstrate the depth and breadth of talent within this family name.

Genealogical research on the last name Culcasi

The surname Culcasi originates from Italy, specifically the region of Sardinia. It is believed to be a derivative of the Latin "culcis" or "culcisius," meaning 'mule driver' or 'mule keeper'. The first documented records of the name can be traced back to the late Middle Ages in Sardinia, where it was common among rural families involved in agriculture and animal husbandry. Over time, the family migrated to other parts of Italy and eventually spread across Europe due to various historical events such as the Italian diaspora during the 19th and 20th centuries. Notable figures bearing the name Culcasi include artists, politicians, and scholars throughout history.

Last name distribution maps

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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 : 10 June 2025

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