Last Name Illas

The surname Illas has origins that can be traced back to several countries, predominantly Spain and Portugal, where it is most commonly found. The root of the name comes from the Latin term "insula," which means "island." Over time, it evolved into various forms in different languages, such as "Illa" or "Illes" in Catalan, and "Ilha" in Portuguese. In some cases, individuals with this surname may have lived near an island or originated from a place named after one. However, the exact origin of a specific instance of the name Illas could depend on various factors, including migration patterns and historical events.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Illas

The meaning and origin of the last name Illas

The surname Illas is of Spanish origin, derived from various locations known as Ille or Illes in Catalonia, an autonomous community in northeastern Spain. Over time, this geographical name evolved into the last name Illas. It is thought to have been borne by inhabitants who resided near these places. The word "Ille" or "Illes" is derived from the Latin "insula," meaning island, reflecting the region's coastal and archipelagic characteristics. As people migrated, they carried their surnames with them, thus spreading the Illas name throughout Spain and beyond. Over centuries, variations in spelling such as Illa, Illés, or Illez have arisen due to transliteration, regional dialects, and individual preferences. Today, the Illas surname is found not only in Spain but also among Spanish-speaking communities worldwide.

Geographical distribution of the last name Illas

The surname Illas has its highest concentration in Spain, particularly in the Balearic Islands, where it is among the most common last names. Specifically, it is most frequently found in the islands of Mallorca and Ibiza, reflecting their historical and cultural influence on the region. Additionally, a significant number of people with the surname Illas can also be found in Catalonia, a community within Spain that shares linguistic and cultural ties with the Balearic Islands. Outside of Spain, there are smaller groups of individuals with the last name Illas in other countries with significant Spanish-speaking populations, such as Mexico, Argentina, and Puerto Rico. These dispersals likely result from migration waves over centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Illas

The surname Illas, or its variations, can be spelled in several ways due to differences in spelling conventions and phonetic transcriptions over time and across regions. Here are some common variations:

* Illeas
* Ilessa
* Illessa
* Illassa
* Illass
* Illias
* Illiadis
* Illiades
* Illiadou
* Illiahos
* Illiadoula

These variants are primarily found among individuals with Spanish, Greek, or Catalan ancestry. It's essential to note that the proper spelling of a surname can depend on factors such as historical documentation, family tradition, and personal preference.

Famous people with the last name Illas

Notable individuals bearing the surname Illas include:

1. Juan Antonio Illas Matate (born 1949), a Spanish politician who served as Minister of Defense from 2004 to 2008 and later as President of the Senate of Spain from 2008 to 2011.

2. Ramón Illas i Martí (1866-1930), a Spanish lawyer, politician, and journalist who served as the Prime Minister of Spain for three months in 1930.

3. Pilar Illas (born 1974), a Spanish actress known for her roles in television series such as Cuéntame cómo pasó, Los Serrano, and Aída.

4. David Illas Casares (born 1985), a Spanish footballer who played as a goalkeeper for various clubs including RCD Espanyol and CA Osasuna.

5. Sergi Illa i Ferrando (born 1972), a Catalan politician and lawyer who has served as the Mayor of Badalona since 2015 and is currently a Member of the Parliament of Catalonia.

These figures have made significant contributions to various fields such as politics, journalism, acting, and sports in Spain.

Genealogical research on the last name Illas

The surname Illas has roots traced back to the Iberian Peninsula, particularly in the Balearic Islands and Catalonia, Spain. Historical records indicate that the name first appeared during the Late Middle Ages, with notable bearers emerging in the 13th century. Over time, variations of the name, such as Illas-Moyano, Illas-Mascaró, and Illas-Gimeno, have been documented. The family is believed to have origins in the village of Santa Margalida on the island of Mallorca. Some branches of the Illas family migrated to mainland Spain during the 15th century and later colonized other Spanish territories including South America. Notable individuals with the surname Illas include Francisco Illas y Martínez, a prominent Catalan philosopher, and Pedro Illas, a pioneer in Balearic Islands archaeology. The Illas name is now widespread across Spain, particularly among Catalans and Mallorcans, and has also been carried to various parts of the world by Spanish immigrants.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Illas"
• 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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