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Last Name Jover

What is the origin of the last name Jover?

The last name Jover originates from the Basque region of Spain and France. It is derived from a place name, specifically from a village named Xabier (transliterated as Javier) which means "house among the yew trees" in Basque. The surname Jover is a variant of Javier or Xabier. Basques have been using patronymic and local surnames for many centuries, but the system of hereditary surnames was not universalized in the region until the late Middle Ages, during the reign of King Charles III of Navarre (1500-1555).

Learn more about the origin of the last name Jover

The meaning and origin of the last name Jover

The surname Jover is primarily of Spanish origin, stemming from the medieval practice of occupational surnames where individuals were identified by their professions or trades. In this case, the surname Jover has roots in the Old Occitan word "jubier," which means "saddle maker." Over time, it evolved into "Jovier" and subsequently "Jover" in Spanish. It is important to note that surnames did not become mandatory in Spain until the late 18th century; thus, the distribution of this name throughout Spain today is a result of migration patterns over centuries. While Jover is common in many parts of Spain, especially Catalonia and the Basque Country, it can also be found in other Spanish-speaking countries like Mexico, Argentina, Puerto Rico, and Cuba due to historical colonization and immigration.

Geographical distribution of the last name Jover

The surname Jover is predominantly found in Spain, with a significant concentration in the autonomous community of Catalonia, particularly in its capital city, Barcelona. It also appears frequently in the neighboring provinces of Tarragona and Girona. Beyond Spain, there are pockets of individuals carrying this name in other Spanish-speaking countries such as Argentina, Mexico, and Puerto Rico, due to historical migration patterns. However, it is less common in these locations compared to Spain. The geographical distribution of the Jover surname also includes France, especially in the Occitanie region, where it may share etymological origins with its Spanish counterpart.

Variants and spellings of the last name Jover

The surname Jover has various spelling variations, including Jouvier, Jauvre, Jourve, and Jourva. These alterations may arise from regional dialects, transcription errors over time, or cultural assimilation. It is also possible to find spellings such as Iover, Iauvre, Ioerve, and Iovva, which represent alternative phonetic pronunciations. Additionally, surnames can sometimes be shortened or altered due to migration, naturalization processes, or changes in family traditions. The spelling of a name often reflects its origins, with the Jover name possibly being of Basque, French, or Spanish origin, depending on the specific branch of the family tree and the historical context.

Famous people with the last name Jover

Notable individuals sharing the surname Jover include: 1. Jose Maria Jover y Santisteban (1826-1903) - A Spanish philosopher and pedagogue, known for his contribution to the development of the Spanish educational system in the 19th century. 2. Antonio Jover (born 1954) - A Spanish film director and screenwriter, best known for films like "La isla interior" (1988) and "Mi vida sin ellas" (1995). 3. Josep Maria Jover i Togores (1870-1936) - A Catalan architect who contributed to the Modernisme movement in Barcelona, Spain. His most renowned works include the Casa Lleó Morera and Casa Amatller. 4. Enric Jover (born 1952) - A Spanish historian specializing in the history of the Catholic Church during the Middle Ages, particularly the role of popes. He is a member of the Royal Spanish Academy.

Genealogical research on the last name Jover

The surname Jover originates from Catalonia, a region in northeastern Spain. Historical records indicate that the name was first documented during the late Middle Ages, suggesting it may have origins as early as the 13th century. It is primarily associated with the cities of Barcelona and Girona, although variations such as Xover or Huver can be found throughout Catalonia. The earliest known bearer of the name was Guillem Jover, who lived in the 14th century. The family expanded and branched out over subsequent centuries, with records showing numerous descendants living in various towns and villages around Barcelona and Girona. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a significant number of Jover descendants emigrated to Cuba, Argentina, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and other Spanish-speaking countries due to economic opportunities provided by colonial expansion. Today, the Jover family can be found worldwide, with a large concentration in Spain, Latin America, and the United States. Genealogical research indicates that the name shares similarities with other Iberian surnames such as Gobernado (Governor), Oviedo (from the city of Oviedo), and Jovera, although it is not directly related to these names. Overall, the Jover lineage boasts a rich history that spans centuries and continents, with many fascinating tales and stories yet to be uncovered.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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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