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Last Name Licata

What is the origin of the last name Licata?

The last name Licata is of Italian origin. It most likely originated from the Sicilian region of Italy. The name is derived from a place name, "Licata," which is a town located in the Agrigento province of Sicily. People with the last name Licata may have ancestors who hailed from this town or the surrounding area.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Licata

The meaning and origin of the last name Licata

The surname Licata is of Italian origin and is believed to be derived from the city of Licata in Sicily. The name may have originated as a locational surname, indicating that the bearer was from Licata. Alternatively, it could have derived from a personal name or nickname given to someone from that area. Licata is a coastal town in the province of Agrigento, known for its historic architecture and scenic views of the Mediterranean Sea. The surname Licata is relatively common in Italy and among Italian diaspora communities around the world. It is a popular surname that has been passed down through generations, often serving as a familial connection to the town of Licata.

Geographical distribution of the last name Licata

The last name Licata is primarily found in Italy and has a significant geographical distribution within the country. It is most commonly concentrated in the southern regions, with Sicily being the main hub. Within Sicily, the cities of Palermo, Messina, and Catania have the highest population of Licata individuals. Licata is also found in other regions such as Calabria, Lombardy, and Lazio, although to a lesser extent. Outside of Italy, Licata can be seen in smaller numbers in other countries with historical ties to Italy, such as the United States, Canada, and Argentina. It is important to note that while Licata is most prevalent in Italy, there are smaller populations scattered across the globe due to migration and the diaspora of Italian communities throughout history.

Variants and spellings of the last name Licata

The last name Licata has a few variations and spellings depending on different regions and historical records. One variation is Licata itself, which is the most common and widely used spelling. However, some other variations or alternate spellings of Licata may include Licatta or Lycata. These variations may occur due to regional dialects, immigration, or transcription errors. Additionally, in different countries or languages, the name might appear differently. For example, in Italian, it remains as Licata, while in Spanish, it may be spelled Licatta or Licáta. It's worth noting that as surnames have been passed down through generations, they often incurred spelling changes due to various factors, such as illiteracy, language shifts, or assimilation into different cultures. Consequently, the variations and spellings of Licata reflect the complexity and diversity of historical and linguistic influences.

Famous people with the last name Licata

Some of the most famous people with the last name Licata include Italian jazz musician Gaetano Licata, who is known for his skillful piano playing and innovative compositions. Another well-known individual is Italian footballer Mimmo Licata, who played as a midfielder for several top Italian clubs during his career. Additionally, journalist and author Giuliano Licata has gained recognition for his contributions to the field of literature and media in Italy. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have helped bring the Licata name to the forefront of Italian cultural and artistic achievements.

Genealogical research on the last name Licata

The Licata surname has its origins in Sicily, Italy. The name is believed to be of Norman origin, originating from a French word meaning "skilled" or "clever." The earliest recorded instances of the Licata surname can be traced back to medieval times, when the Licata family held a prominent position in the city of Licata, located in southern Sicily. Over the centuries, the Licata family expanded and spread throughout the region, with branches establishing themselves in various towns and cities across Sicily. The Licatas were known for their involvement in various trades and professions, including agriculture, commerce, and arts. They also held positions of authority, serving as local leaders and administrators. Today, the Licata surname can still be found in Sicily, as well as in other parts of Italy and among the many Sicilian diaspora communities around the world.

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 April 2025

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