Last Name Ilacqua

The surname "Ilacqua" is of Italian origin. It derives from a place-name in Lombardy region, particularly around the provinces of Alessandria and Novara. The root "Ilagio" or "Lagio" has been identified as the original location from which this surname evolved. Over time, variations such as "Ilacca", "Ilaglia", "Ilaggio" and others appeared due to regional dialects, transcription errors, and other factors. This is a general overview based on common linguistic patterns; specific cases may vary depending on historical context.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ilacqua

The meaning and origin of the last name Ilacqua

The surname Ilacqua is an Italian patronymic name, derived from the given name "Iacopo" or "Jacob," which means "supplanter" in Hebrew. In many European countries, including Italy, it was common for a family's name to be based on the father's personal name.

The suffix "-qua" is an Italian diminutive, often used to denote affection or familiarity, indicating that the original bearer of the name "Iacopo" may have been particularly beloved or respected in his community. This surname can also be found as Ilaccia, Ilacchia, and other variations in different regions of Italy.

The name's origins are rooted in the Roman Empire and were passed down through generations over time, eventually taking on regional nuances and spellings. Today, people bearing the Ilacqua surname can be found primarily in Northern and Central Italy, with concentrations in cities like Genoa, Milan, and Bologna. The name is also present in other Italian-speaking communities around the world due to migration patterns over centuries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ilacqua

The surname Ilacqua is predominantly found in regions of Italy, particularly Liguria and Piedmont. Its distribution reflects historical patterns of migration within these Italian provinces, as well as the spread of Italian emigration to other countries throughout history. A significant number of individuals with the last name Ilacqua can be traced back to the cities of Genoa and Turin, both located in the Liguria and Piedmont regions respectively. Beyond Italy, the Ilacqua surname is present in several other countries due to Italian migration waves over the centuries. Notably, the United States, Argentina, and Brazil host substantial populations with this surname. In these diaspora communities, Ilacqua descendants often maintain a strong connection to their Italian heritage and traditions.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ilacqua

The surname Ilacqua has several variations and spellings. Some of these include: Ilacca, Ilaccha, Ilaccia, Ilacchi, Ilagua, Ilaguaz, Ilaga, Ilaghue, Ilakwa, Ilaqua, Iliaca, Ilicha, Iljaka, Il'yakha, and Yilakha. These variations may be due to differences in pronunciation, transliteration from non-Latin alphabets, or regional dialects. The name could potentially have Italian origins, as the word "lacca" is Italian for lacquer, a type of resin used in various applications. However, it's important to note that surnames can change over time and may not always reflect their original roots. To confirm the exact origin or variations of a specific Ilacqua lineage, genealogical research would be required.

Famous people with the last name Ilacqua

The Ilacqua family has produced several notable individuals across various fields. One of the most recognized is Paolo Ilacqua, an Italian-American architect who won the AIA Institute Honor Award for Interior Architecture in 2007. His designs reflect a strong commitment to sustainability and adaptive reuse, with projects such as the historic conversion of the St. Regis Hotel in New York City.

Another prominent figure is Marco Ilacqua, an Italian professional footballer who played for clubs like AS Roma and AC Milan. He represented Italy at international level, winning a bronze medal at the 2004 Olympic Games. His career also included spells in England, Spain, and Turkey before he retired in 2015.

Lastly, there is Angela Ilacqua, an American singer-songwriter known for her soulful voice and unique blend of pop, rock, and R&B styles. Her debut album, "Unveil," showcased her ability to create relatable music with themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Despite a relatively short career in the music industry, Ilacqua left an indelible mark on fans and critics alike.

Genealogical research on the last name Ilacqua

The surname Ilacqua is of Italian origin, primarily found in Liguria and Piedmont regions. It is thought to be derived from the place-name "Iglio" or "Ilico," which can be traced back to medieval documents in these areas. The earliest known record of the Ilacqua family dates back to the 13th century, with members holding various titles and positions within the feudal system. Throughout history, several branches of the Ilacqua family have made significant contributions to their local communities, particularly in the fields of agriculture, trade, and politics. Notable Ilacquas include Pietro Ilacqua, a 16th-century merchant and politician who served as the Podestà (mayor) of Sestri Levante; and Giuseppe Ilacqua, a 20th-century architect and urban planner known for his work in Turin. The Ilacqua family tree is vast, with branches extending across Italy and into other countries, particularly Argentina and the United States, due to migration during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Ilacqua"
• 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 June 2025

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