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Last Name Piana

What is the origin of the last name Piana?

The last name "Piana" has multiple origins and variations. 1. Italian Origin: Piana is a surname of Italian origin, specifically from the Lombardy region. It is derived from the Italian word "piana," meaning "plain" or "level." This name was likely used to describe someone who either lived in a place with a flat terrain or had a calm and even temperament. 2. Jewish Origin: Piana is also found among Jewish communities. It can be an Ashkenazi Jewish surname derived from the Yiddish word "pian," meaning "pin" or "needle." This name might have been given to someone who worked as a tailor or had a slender physique. 3. Spanish Origin: In some cases, the surname Piana could have a Spanish origin. Derived from the word "piano," meaning "pilot" or "helmsman," it could have been a occupational name given to individuals involved in naval or maritime activities. Overall, the specific origin of the last name "Piana" would depend on the particular individual or family's ancestry and cultural background.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Piana

The meaning and origin of the last name Piana

Genealogical research on the surname Piana is quite difficult because of its rarity in France. According to the data recorded, it appears that the name Piana is of Italian origin, particularly in the region of Sardinia and Corsica. The first traces of the family name date back to the 17th century in Corsica, with family members having held positions of power in various fields. In France, the archives reveal that members of the Piana family settled in the Marseilles region in the 1830s and then emigrated to other French regions. Genealogical research on the family name Piana therefore requires a deep dive into the national archives, as well as a collaboration with professional genealogists to find more precise information about the ancestors of the Piana.

Geographical distribution of the last name Piana

The surname Piana is mainly widespread in Corsica and in the Mediterranean region of France. Indeed, statistical data indicate that nearly 50% of the population bearing this name is concentrated there. Corsica is the place where the name Piana is most common, and the cities of Bastia, Ajaccio, and Porto-Vecchio are particularly affected. Pianas are also found in other European countries, including Italy, Switzerland, Germany and Belgium. Overall, the family name Piana is widespread in regions where Italian cultural and linguistic influence is strong. A large part of the Corsican diaspora took her last name with her, explaining her presence in some countries in Europe and North America.

Variants and spellings of the last name Piana

The last name Piana can have several variations and spellings, reflecting the diverse ways in which surnames can change across regions and time periods. Some variations of Piana include Piani, Pianaro, Pianci, and Pianese. These variations may have originated from different dialects or phonetic evolutions. Additionally, the spelling of the name may differ based on the country of origin or individual preferences. For instance, in Italy, the name might be spelled as Piana or Pianà, whereas in English-speaking countries, it could be documented as Pianah or Pianah. The spelling variations may also depend on how the name was anglicized or adapted when individuals or families migrated to different countries. Some individuals might choose to alter the spelling of their surname intentionally, while others may have their names misspelled by authorities or clerks during official records' creation. Overall, the various variations and spellings of the last name Piana demonstrate the flexibility and fluidity of naming practices throughout history.

Famous people with the last name Piana

There are several famous individuals with the last name Piana, who have made significant contributions in various fields. One notable figure is Pietro Piana (1842-1912), an Italian painter who was known for his unique artistic style and landscape paintings. He showcased his works in several prestigious exhibitions, receiving critical acclaim and becoming a prominent figure in the art scene of his time. In the world of sports and fitness, the late Greg Plitt (1977-2015) was a famous American fitness model and actor with connections to the Piana name. Plitt rose to prominence through his impressive physique and motivational workout videos, which inspired many fitness enthusiasts around the globe. Although not directly related to the Piana family, his success and association with the fitness industry have made him a recognizable figure in that community. Overall, these individuals have made a lasting impact in their respective fields, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Genealogical research on the last name Piana

Genealogical research on the family name Piana has made it possible to trace the origins of this family in Italy, specifically in the region of Liguria. The first known ancestors had the name Piana from the seventeenth century and lived in the city of Savone. From there, the family has settled in different parts of Italy over the centuries. The study of the archives revealed that some family members immigrated to France, Algeria and Argentina in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The name Piana remains relatively rare, but it is possible to find descendants in different parts of the world. In-depth research into genealogy has helped to build a fairly complete family tree of the Piana family, and to trace the history of its members over several generations.

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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