Last Name Curetti

The surname Curetti is of Italian origin. It is a patronymic surname derived from the given name Curzio (derived from the Latin name Curtius), which was common in Italy during the Middle Ages. The suffix "-etti" or "-et" is a common Italian diminutive, meaning "little," and was often added to personal names to indicate affectionate nicknames or occupations related to the original name. In this case, Curetti could have been originally used as a nickname for someone with a small stature or gentle demeanor compared to Curzio. It may also have referred to a craftsman who specialized in a minor branch of the occupation associated with Curzio. The first recorded spelling of the name dates back to the late Middle Ages, suggesting that it has been in continuous use for at least seven centuries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Curetti

The meaning and origin of the last name Curetti

The surname Curetti is an Italian patronymic name derived from the given name "Cure," which is a diminutive form of "Curzio." The name Curzio has Latin origins, with the element 'curius' meaning 'citizen,' suggesting that the original bearer of this name may have been a Roman citizen. Over time, the name evolved into various spellings, with Curetti being one of them.

In medieval Italy, surnames were typically adopted as a way to identify individuals within their communities. Patronymic names like Curetti were often formed by adding a suffix such as "-i" or "-etti" to the father's first name. This practice was common in many regions of Europe during the Middle Ages and continued into the modern era.

Today, the surname Curetti is most prevalent in Italy, particularly in the central and northern regions. However, due to migration and diaspora, people with this surname can also be found in other parts of the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Curetti

The surname Curetti is predominantly Italian, with a substantial concentration found in the northern region of Emilia-Romagna and specifically in the provinces of Parma, Modena, Piacenza, and Reggio Emilia. Other significant populations reside in Lombardy, Tuscany, and Veneto, which are also regions in Northern Italy. Additionally, Curettis can be found in smaller numbers across other Italian provinces as well as in some parts of Switzerland due to historical migration patterns. The surname is relatively rare outside of these areas, but there have been instances of emigration to countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Canada, the United States, and Australia, particularly during the 19th and early 20th centuries. This geographical distribution suggests that the origins of the Curetti family are likely rooted in Italy's northern regions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Curetti

The surname Curetti has several variations and spellings. These include: Curetti, Curette, Curet, Curett, Coretto, Coretti, and Corretti. Each of these versions may have originated from different regions within Italy, where the name is most common. In some cases, the spelling can be influenced by regional dialects or historical documents, such as baptismal records or census data. The name's etymology suggests a possible occupation related to metalworking or craftsmanship, as "curo" in Latin means "to take care of" and was often used in the names of artisans. The variation in spelling reflects the fluidity of surnames over time and the diverse cultural contexts in which they have been passed down through generations.

Famous people with the last name Curetti

The Curetti family has produced several notable figures across various fields. Among them, Giuseppe Curetti (1746-1830), an Italian sculptor, is renowned for his contribution to Neoclassicism during the late Baroque period in Rome. Another significant figure is Alessandro Curetti (born 1956), an Italian composer and conductor known for his work in contemporary music, particularly in the field of electronic and computer music. In sports, Francesco Curetti (born 1974) has made a name for himself as a retired footballer who played for clubs like Fiorentina, Lazio, and Aston Villa during his career. Lastly, Maria Caterina Curetti (1825-1883), an Italian poetess and novelist, was recognized for her contributions to Italian literature in the 19th century. These individuals represent a diverse range of talents and achievements within the Curetti family lineage.

Genealogical research on the last name Curetti

The surname Curetti is of Italian origin, primarily found in the regions of Emilia-Romagna and Lombardy. Its earliest recorded appearance can be traced back to the late Middle Ages. The name Curetti is derived from the occupation "cuore" or "cuiro", meaning leather worker or tanner, reflecting the profession of an early ancestor. The Curetti family migrated to various parts of Italy and later, Europe, due to historical events such as the Italian unification in the 19th century. Notable bearers of this surname include Antonio Curetti, a renowned painter from Lombardy during the Baroque period, and Matteo Curetti, a distinguished medical doctor who contributed significantly to the field of neurology in modern times. The Curetti family tree branches out extensively, with numerous branches across Italy and the diaspora, making genealogical research challenging yet rewarding for those seeking their roots.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "curetti"
• 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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends