Last Name Micallef

The last name "Micallef" has its origins in Malta, a small island nation located in the Mediterranean Sea. It is considered a Maltese surname. The name "Micallef" is believed to be of Italian origin and is derived from the first name "Michele" or "Michael," which means "Who is like God?" in Hebrew. It is a relatively common surname among the Maltese population.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Micallef

The meaning and origin of the last name Micallef

The name Micallef has an Italian origin, more precisely Sicily. It is derived from the Greek name "Michael", which means "who is like God". With the suffix "-leff", which is a typical suffix of Sicilian surnames, it becomes Micallef. This family name dates back to the medieval period when Greek influence was important on the island of Sicily.

The popularity of the family name Micallef can also be attributed to the arrival of many Sicilian immigrants in the 19th century in France, especially in Marseille, where they settled and enriched local culture. Over time, many Micallef families have settled in other countries such as Malta, Australia and the United States, thus strengthening the spread of this name.

Thus, the family name Micallef retains its Sicilian heritage and recalls the Greek origins of its bearers. It is a living testimony to the history of a community and its migration through generations.

Geographical distribution of the last name Micallef

The name Micallef is mainly widespread in the Mediterranean and more specifically in the southern European countries. It is found in large numbers in Italy, especially Sicily and Sardinia, where it is one of the most common surnames. It is also present in Spain, notably in Catalonia and the Balearic Islands, as well as in Malta, where it is also widespread. In France, the name Micallef is more common in the south of the country, in Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur and in Corsica. Finally, we can also find some holders of the Micallef surname in other Mediterranean countries such as Greece and Turkey, where it is often spelled slightly differently.

Variants and spellings of the last name Micallef

The Micallef family name has different variations and spellings depending on the region and language influences. Some of these variants include Micalef, Micallef, Micallef, Micaleff, Micaleffe or Micalef. These variations may be the result of pronunciation or spelling in different languages. For example, in Italy it can be spelled Micallef, while in France it can be spelled Micallef. In other words, variations in the Micallef surname reflect regional and linguistic differences, and may be present in countries where family members have migrated or settled for generations. These variants add diversity to the origin and history of the Micallef family name, and reflect the adaptation of families to new linguistic and cultural environments.

Famous people with the last name Micallef

One of the most recognizable surnames, Micallef, has been associated with numerous talented individuals across various fields. Shaun Micallef, a prominent Australian comedian, actor, and writer, is widely acclaimed for his witty humor and television shows, including "The Micallef Program" and "Mad as Hell." Kevin Micallef, a renowned Maltese football player, has made his mark in the sport with his exceptional skills, representing multiple clubs and earning several accolades throughout his career. In the world of art, Emma Micallef, an accomplished painter and sculptor from Malta, has gained recognition for her expressive and emotive works. Moreover, Fabio Micallef Soufi, a skilled Maltese chef, has showcased his culinary talents and creativity through his innovative dishes, earning praise from gastronomy enthusiasts. These individuals exemplify the diverse accomplishments and influence of the Micallef name, leaving an indelible mark in their respective domains.

Genealogical research on the last name Micallef

Micallef is a surname of Maltese origin, commonly found in Malta and among Maltese communities outside the country. The name is derived from the given name Michael, which itself has biblical origins. The name Micallef can be traced back several centuries within Maltese historical records and has remained relatively consistent over time. Research indicates the surname emerged during or before the 15th century, with individuals bearing this name found in various official documents such as baptismal records, marriage certificates, and census data. The Micallef family, like many Maltese families, likely experienced migrations and shifts in social status, leading to the spread of the surname across different regions. Today, numerous individuals with the last name Micallef can still be found in Malta and within Maltese diaspora communities, proudly upholding their rich heritage and contributing to the diverse cultural landscape.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Micallef"
• 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

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