Last Name Matta

The surname "Matta" is of Italian and Spanish origin. It is derived from the form of the personal name "Matteo" in Italian, or "Mateo" in Spanish, which both derive from the Hebrew name "Mattityahu" meaning "gift of Yahweh". The name was first introduced to Europe through the influence of Christianity. "Matta" is a relatively common surname in Italy, Spain, and other Spanish-speaking countries.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Matta

The meaning and origin of the last name Matta

The surname Matta has a diverse origin and can be traced back to several cultures. In the Italian context, Matta is derived from the personal name Matteo, which is the Italian form of Matthew, meaning "gift of God." This Italian variant spread throughout different regions and eventually evolved into the surname Matta. Additionally, in the Spanish-speaking world, Matta can be an occupational surname derived from the Spanish word "mata," meaning "heath" or "scrubland." This suggests that the initial bearers of the surname might have lived or worked in areas covered with shrubs or scrubland. Moreover, Matta can also be of Arabic origin, where it is derived from the word "matta," meaning "low" or "depressed." This Arabic variant was adopted as a surname by some Sephardic Jews during their migration from the Iberian Peninsula to other parts of the Mediterranean and the Americas. Hence, the surname Matta carries various meanings and origins, reflecting the complex historical and linguistic influences on this surname.

Geographical distribution of the last name Matta

The surname "Matta" is primarily found in various countries across the world, reflecting its diverse origins. In Italy, the name is particularly concentrated in the regions of Lombardy, Veneto, and Sicily. In Argentina, Matta is a common surname among the Italian immigrant community, particularly in the provinces of Buenos Aires, Santa Fe, and Córdoba. Similarly, Matta is also prevalent in Chile, mainly in the central and southern regions of the country. In Lebanon, Matta is a frequently encountered surname, especially in the capital city of Beirut. Additionally, the name can also be found in significant numbers in India, specifically in the states of Maharashtra and Goa, due to historical Portuguese influence and migration patterns. In other parts of the world, individuals with the surname Matta can be found in communities of Italian, Lebanese, and Indian descent, contributing to the geographically diverse distribution of the name.

Variants and spellings of the last name Matta

The last name Matta can have several variations and spellings depending on the region or language. One common variation is "Mata," which is often seen in Spanish-speaking countries. Other variants include "Madda" or "Maddah," which are common in the Middle East, particularly in Arabic-speaking countries. In some cases, the last name may also be spelled as "Mattah" or "Maatta," adopting different vowel combinations. Additionally, in countries with a significant Italian influence, the surname might appear as "Matti" or "Mattia" due to linguistic adaptations. In certain instances, the name may have been anglicized, resulting in the spelling "Mather" or "Matha." It is important to note that these variations and spellings are not exhaustive, as individuals with this last name may have adopted further alterations based on personal or regional preferences.

Famous people with the last name Matta

There are several famous individuals with the last name Matta who have made significant contributions in various fields. Roberto Matta, a Chilean artist, was a prominent figure in the Surrealist movement during the 20th century. His mesmerizing paintings feature dreamlike scenes with a blend of abstraction and figuration, leaving a lasting impact on the art world. Carlos Enrique Matta, a renowned Venezuelan architect, is known for his innovative designs and sustainable architecture. His projects beautifully integrate nature and modern technology, showcasing a deep understanding of environmental factors. In the sports world, Eduardo Matta, a Brazilian football player, gained recognition for his skills as a forward during the 1970s and 1980s. Lastly, Salvador Matta is a Mexican entrepreneur and philanthropist, known for his successful business ventures and his commitment to improving education in disadvantaged communities through his foundation. These are just a few examples of famous individuals with the last name Matta, each leaving their unique mark in their respective fields.

Genealogical research on the last name Matta

The surname Matta has its roots in various cultures and regions. One prominent origin comes from Italy, particularly from southern regions like Sicily and Calabria. In Italian, "matta" means "crazy" or "crazy woman," suggesting a possible nickname-based origin. Another possible origin is from Spain, where "mata" means "kill" or "the one who kills." This suggests a potential surname derived from a nickname given to a warrior or someone with a fierce personality. Furthermore, variations of the name Matta also exist in Arabic-speaking countries, such as Lebanon and Syria, where it may have been derived from the Arabic word for "death" or "deceased." Throughout history, individuals with the last name Matta have migrated to different regions, contributing to the diversity of its genealogical roots. In conclusion, the surname Matta bears variations and roots in Italy, Spain, and Arabic-speaking countries, forming a diverse and intriguing genealogical background.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Matta"
• 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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends