Last Name Grimaldo

Learn more about the origin of the last name Grimaldo

The meaning and origin of the last name Grimaldo

The surname Grimaldo is of Italian origin and has several possible meanings. One possibility is that it is derived from the medieval personal name 'Grimaldo', which was popular during the medieval period in Italy. This given name is believed to come from the Germanic elements 'grim' meaning "mask" or "helmet" and 'wald' meaning "rule" or "ruler." Another possible origin is from the Italian word 'grima', meaning "repulsion" or "disgust." It is also worth noting that the surname Grimaldo is closely associated with the renowned Grimaldi family of Genoa, Italy, which has a long and prominent history. The Grimaldis later migrated to Monaco in the 13th century, where they have ruled for centuries and currently hold the position of the ruling house of Monaco. Today, individuals with the surname Grimaldo can be found in various parts of Italy and around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Grimaldo

The last name Grimaldo has a relatively widespread geographical distribution, with its origins rooted in Italy. It is most commonly found in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in the regions of Campania, Calabria, and Sicily. In these areas, the name has a long and rich history, dating back several centuries. Over time, some individuals with the last name Grimaldo migrated to other countries, resulting in a more global distribution. Today, significant populations of Grimaldos can be found in countries such as Spain, particularly in the regions of Andalusia and Murcia. Similarly, there are notable concentrations of individuals with the last name Grimaldo in Mexico, Argentina, and the United States, especially in states with larger Hispanic communities. The geographical distribution of the last name Grimaldo provides insight into the migration patterns and cultural connections of individuals bearing this name throughout history.

Variants and spellings of the last name Grimaldo

The last name Grimaldo has a few variations and spellings, reflecting the diverse ways it has been recorded throughout history. Some common variations include Grimwald, Grimwold, Grimaldi, and Grimalt. These variations can be attributed to a range of factors, such as migration, phonetic changes, or different regional customs in recording names. Additionally, depending on the country or language, further variations can be found. For instance, in Spain, the name might be spelled as Grimaldos, while in Italy, it could be written as Grimaldi. Moreover, alternate spellings like Grymald and Grimaude are occasionally encountered. Despite these variations, the underlying origin behind the name remains consistent, with the majority of instances tracing back to a common root. Whether spelled Grimaldo, Grimaldi, or any other variation, this surname continues to carry its unique heritage and history through its many forms.

Famous people with the last name Grimaldo

One famous person with the last name Grimaldo is Hernando Grimaldo, a renowned Spanish explorer who sailed with Christopher Columbus on his second voyage to the Americas in the late 15th century. Grimaldo played a significant role in the exploration and colonization of the New World, particularly in the Caribbean region. His efforts helped establish Spanish presence in the Americas and paved the way for subsequent explorations and settlements. Another notable figure is Diego Grimaldo, a prominent Spanish painter during the Golden Age of Spanish art in the 16th century. Known for his exquisite portraits and religious artworks, Diego Grimaldo contributed to the cultural and artistic development of Spain during this influential era. His works continue to be admired and studied by art enthusiasts and historians today. Overall, these individuals have certainly left their mark in history and contributed to the fields of exploration and art.

Genealogical research on the last name Grimaldo

The last name Grimaldo has its origins in Italy, specifically in the region of Liguria. It is believed to have derived from the personal name "Grimoald," which was a popular name during the medieval times. The Grimaldo family is known to have established itself in various parts of Italy, including Genoa and Naples. Over time, branches of the Grimaldo family spread to other countries, with notable members emigrating to Spain, Portugal, and South America. The family played a prominent role in these regions, holding positions of influence and contributing to various fields. In Spain, for instance, the Grimaldo family became part of the nobility and held titles such as Marquis of Cáceres. It is worth noting that the Grimaldos are not related to the ruling family of Monaco, the House of Grimaldi, which has a separate ancestral history. Today, the Grimaldo surname can still be found in several countries, with descendants continuing to contribute to society in various walks of life.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Grimaldo"
• 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 : 11 April 2025