The surname Evora is of Portuguese origin. It is derived from various places in Portugal, including Évora, a city that serves as the capital of the Alentejo region. The name of the city is thought to originate from the Latin word "Hevorah," meaning "yew tree." As a surname, Evora may have been a geographical name for someone who lived near or originated from Évora, or it could be an occupational name for someone who worked with yew trees.
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The meaning and origin of the last name Evora
The surname Evora is of Portuguese origin, derived from the place name Évora, a city located in the Alentejo region in southern Portugal. Originally, it served as a nickname for someone who was born or lived near this town. Over time, the name became hereditary and spread beyond Portugal, with significant numbers of Evoras found today in countries such as Brazil, Angola, and Mozambique due to historical Portuguese colonialism. The name can also be spelled as Évora, Ewora, or Ev'ra, depending on regional dialects and variations in transcription over time. In some cases, the surname may have originated from other places named Évora in Europe, such as Spain or France, but the majority of Evoras today are believed to have Portuguese origins.
Geographical distribution of the last name Evora
The surname Evora is predominantly found in Portugal, particularly in the southern Alentejo region where it originated. It is one of the oldest and most traditional Portuguese surnames, often associated with the town of Évora, which serves as the capital city of the Alentejo district. Over time, the name has spread beyond Portugal, largely due to emigration. In Brazil, a significant number of people share the Evora surname, particularly in the states of Minas Gerais and São Paulo, reflecting historical Portuguese immigration. Additionally, small communities with the Evora surname can be found in various countries such as Angola, Mozambique, the United States, Canada, Australia, and other former Portuguese colonies, highlighting the global dispersal of this name from its origins in Portugal.
Variants and spellings of the last name Evora
The surname Evora can have various spelling variations due to differences in regional pronunciation and transcription over time. Some common variants include: Aevora, Ayvora, Evoura, Evoira, Evoraa, Evorah, Evorra, and Evoura. These variations may stem from slight phonetic changes or differences in the language used when recording the name. In Portuguese, the most common spelling is simply "Evora," although the other variants can be found in different regions and among individuals with Portuguese ancestry who may have adopted slightly different spellings based on local customs or personal preference. It's important to note that the correct spelling of any surname, including Evora, can depend on factors such as the country of origin, the individual's particular family tradition, or historical records.
Famous people with the last name Evora
Amalia Rodrigues and Mariza are two prominent figures associated with the surname Evora, particularly in the realm of music. Amalia Rodrigues (1920-1999), known as "The Queen of Fado," was a renowned Portuguese singer who gained international acclaim for her unique interpretation of traditional Fado music. Her career spanned over six decades, and she is considered one of the most important figures in preserving and popularizing Fado worldwide. Mariza (born 1973), another celebrated Fado singer from Portugal, has followed in Rodrigues' footsteps, earning widespread recognition for her captivating voice and emotional performances. Both artists have contributed significantly to promoting Portuguese culture and music on a global scale.
Genealogical research on the last name Evora
The surname Evora originates from Portugal and is derived from various locations named Evora throughout the country, most notably the city of Évora in the Alentejo region. Historically, it was inhabited by Celtic tribes before the Roman conquest and later became an important Roman settlement. The name Évora is believed to originate from the Latin word Ebora, which is thought to be derived from the pre-Celtic Iberian word Ibor, meaning "ibex". The surname Evora has been recorded in various forms over the centuries, including Aubeira, Aubera, and Abuyera, reflecting the phonetic variations common during the Middle Ages. Notable individuals bearing the name include Portuguese musicians José Afonso and Ana Moura.
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