Last Name Miralles

Learn more about the origin of the last name Miralles

The meaning and origin of the last name Miralles

The surname Miralles is of Catalan origin and is derived from the word "muralles," which means "walls" in the Catalan language. It is a toponymic surname, meaning it is derived from a geographical location or landmark. In this case, Miralles refers to someone who lived or worked near walls, possibly a person who resided near fortifications or city walls in medieval times. The use of toponymic surnames was common in Catalonia and other parts of Spain during the Middle Ages as a way to identify individuals based on their place of origin or residence. The surname Miralles is found predominantly in Catalonia, particularly in areas such as Barcelona and Girona. Over time, individuals with this surname might have migrated to other parts of Spain or even to different countries, leading to its presence among various communities today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Miralles

The last name Miralles is primarily concentrated in Spain, particularly in the regions of Catalonia and Valencia. These regions, located in the northeastern part of the country, have a historically strong presence of Miralles families. In Catalonia, the surname is most commonly found in Barcelona province, where the city of Barcelona is located. Valencia, on the other hand, has a significant number of Miralles families spread across its various municipalities. Outside of Spain, the name Miralles can also be found in other countries with significant Spanish-speaking populations, such as Mexico, Argentina, and the United States. Throughout history, migrations and emigrations from Spain have contributed to the dispersal of the Miralles surname to different parts of the world. Overall, while the geographical distribution of the last name Miralles is centered in Spain, its presence extends beyond national borders due to various historical and demographic factors.

Variants and spellings of the last name Miralles

The last name Miralles has a few variations and spellings depending on the region and cultural background. It is commonly found spelled as Miralles, which is the most widely recognized form. However, variations can include Mirallis, Miralez, Miralez, Mirelles, and Miralis. These variations might be the result of different dialects, regional accents, or even transcription errors throughout history. Family members who migrated to different countries may have adopted alternative spellings to match the local pronunciation or spelling conventions. For instance, individuals with the last name Miralles who settled in English-speaking countries might Anglicize the spelling to Miralis or Mirallis. Despite the different variations, these spellings ultimately share the same origin and refer to one family name. The variations in spelling add to the rich tapestry of linguistic diversity amongst individuals who bear the surname Miralles.

Famous people with the last name Miralles

There are several famous people with the last name Miralles who have made significant contributions in various fields. One notable figure is Carme Miralles-Guash, a Spanish politician and journalist. She served as a Member of the European Parliament from 2004 to 2014 and was a prominent advocate for social and environmental issues. Another well-known Miralles is Benedetta Miralles, an Italian painter, and sculptor. Benedetta gained recognition for her unique artistic style, often incorporating elements of surrealism and symbolism. Additionally, Guillem Miralles is a renowned Catalan cyclist. He has achieved numerous victories in professional cycling, including several notable stage wins in prestigious races such as the Vuelta a España and Giro d'Italia. These individuals have achieved success and recognition in their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact on society through their talent, advocacy, and sporting achievements.

Genealogical research on the last name Miralles

The last name Miralles has its origins in Catalonia, Spain. It is primarily a patronymic surname derived from the given name Mirel, which itself likely comes from the Latin name "Marius." The surname Miralles can be traced back to at least the 13th century in the region. Over time, individuals with the surname Miralles have migrated to different parts of the world, such as France, Mexico, and the United States. Genealogical research on the Miralles family reveals a fascinating history of individuals involved in various professions, including artisans, farmers, merchants, and professionals. Through analysis of birth, marriage, and death records, as well as census data, one can uncover the different branches and connections within the Miralles family tree. Further research and collaboration with other Miralles descendants can help fill in gaps and provide a more comprehensive picture of the family's genealogy.