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Last Name Navalon

What is the origin of the last name Navalon?

The surname "Navalon" is believed to have origins in Spain. It is derived from a place name, specifically from the town Navarrete in La Rioja region. This surname would have been given as a locative surname to someone who originally came from or was associated with this location. Over time, the spelling may have evolved due to various factors such as dialectical differences and personal preference. However, it's important to note that surnames can also have different origins depending on regional variations and historical contexts.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Navalon

The meaning and origin of the last name Navalon

The surname Navalon is a Spanish patronymic name derived from the given name Navalo, which was an ancient Visigothic personal name, meaning "ship" or "boat." It's believed to have originated from the Basque Country in Spain and later spread throughout the rest of the country during the Middle Ages. The name was often given to individuals who were associated with ships, shipbuilding, or navigation due to its maritime connotations. Over time, it evolved into the more common form of Navalón, Navarro, or Navas. This surname is most prevalent in Spain and Portugal, reflecting its historical origins.

Geographical distribution of the last name Navalon

The surname Navalon is primarily distributed in Spain, with a significant concentration in the regions of Galicia and Asturias, reflecting its historical roots in the northwestern part of the country. Galicia is home to the highest number of people bearing the name, particularly in provinces such as A Coruña, Lugo, and Pontevedra. In Asturias, the name can be found predominantly in Avilés and Oviedo. The presence of Navalon outside Spain is minimal but may be traced in Latin American countries like Argentina, Chile, Cuba, Mexico, and Uruguay, as a result of Spanish immigration waves during the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Variants and spellings of the last name Navalon

The surname Navalon has several variations and spelling permutations due to historical phonetic transformations and regional dialects. Some common variations include Navarro, Navarron, Navarona, Navarone, Navaron, Navallon, Navillon, Navellon, Navelon, and Navilon. These variations can originate from differences in pronunciation, misspellings over time, or regional dialects. In French-speaking regions, the name might be spelled Navillon, Navellon, or Navillion, while in Spanish-speaking areas it would typically be Navalón, Navarro, or Navarón. These variations are a result of the name's origins and its migration through various countries and languages.

Famous people with the last name Navalon

Victor Hugo de la Fuente Navalón, commonly known as Antonio Navarro Wolf (born 1948), is a Spanish writer and professor best recognized for his novel "Time of Silence" which won the National Literary Prize in 1986. Another notable figure with the surname Navalón is Rafael Navalón (1950-2007), a Spanish actor, known for his roles in films such as "The Sea Inside" and "Talk to Her," both directed by Pedro Almodóvar. He won numerous awards including the Goya Award for Best Supporting Actor. Lastly, Amparo Navalón (born 1960) is a Spanish actress, known for her work in theatre, film, and television, particularly for her role as Doña Blanca in the television series "Cuéntame cómo pasó."

Genealogical research on the last name Navalon

The Navalon surname is primarily found in Spain, with roots tracing back to the medieval period. One of the earliest records of the name can be traced to the Kingdom of Galicia, where it was first documented in the 9th century. Over the centuries, the Navalon family has shown significant presence in various regions of Spain, particularly in Castile and León, Aragon, and Catalonia. Notable figures bearing the surname include Pedro Navalón y Mesa (1864-1937), a Spanish journalist, writer, and politician during the Second Republic era. The Navalon lineage can be traced through parish records, census data, and historical documents, revealing a rich and diverse family history in Spain.

Last name distribution maps

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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 : 28 July 2025

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