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Last Name Mecca

What is the origin of the last name Mecca?

The last name Mecca is of Italian origin. It is a habitational name derived from the town of Mecca in Italy.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Mecca

The meaning and origin of the last name Mecca

The surname Mecca is of Italian origin, derived from the name of the city Mecca in Saudi Arabia. It is believed that the surname may have been originally used as a nickname or a surname for someone who had visited or made a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. Alternatively, it could also have been given to someone who displayed qualities associated with the city, such as piety or wisdom. Over time, the surname Mecca has spread beyond its Italian origins and can now be found in various parts of the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mecca

The last name Mecca is most common in Italy, especially in the southern region of Calabria. It can also be found in other parts of Italy, such as Sicily and Campania. Outside of Italy, the surname Mecca is less commonly found but can still be seen in countries with historical ties to Italy, such as the United States, Argentina, and Australia. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Mecca is primarily concentrated in Italy, particularly in the regions of Calabria, Sicily, and Campania, while also having a presence in other countries around the world with Italian immigrant populations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mecca

The last name Mecca can be spelled in various ways including Meccca, Meca, Mekka, Mecah, Meckah, Meaka, Mecka, and Mekah. These variations may be due to errors in transcription, regional accents, or deliberate changes made by individuals or families over time. Regardless of the spelling, the name Mecca likely originated from the Italian word for the Muslim holy city, Mecca, and may have been adopted by individuals as a surname for various reasons. It is not uncommon for last names to have multiple spellings or variations, especially in cases where the name has been passed down through generations or has been influenced by different languages and dialects.

Famous people with the last name Mecca

Some of the most famous people with the last name Mecca include Cosimo Mecca, an Italian actor known for his roles in various Italian films and TV series. Another notable individual is Dino Mecca, a former professional football player from Italy who achieved great success in his career. Additionally, Maria Mecca is a well-known Italian-American opera singer who has performed at prestigious venues around the world. These individuals have all made significant contributions to their respective fields and have garnered recognition for their talents and accomplishments.

Genealogical research on the last name Mecca

Mecca is an Italian surname that originates from the medieval Latin word "Mecia," which refers to a type of wheat. The surname is primarily found in southern Italy, particularly in the regions of Calabria and Sicily. Genealogical research indicates that individuals with the last name Mecca can trace their ancestry back to these regions, with many families having lived there for multiple generations. In some cases, the surname may also be of Arabic origin, derived from the city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, variations of the surname, such as Meccia or Mecchi, can also be found in historical records, suggesting different branches of the family may have adopted slightly altered spellings over time.

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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