Last Name Pica

The surname "Pica" has multiple possible origins. 1. Italian Origin: "Pica" is an Italian surname derived from the Latin word "picus" meaning "woodpecker." It could have initially been a nickname for someone who resembled a woodpecker or had similar characteristics. 2. Jewish Origin: "Pica" is also a Jewish surname with Sephardic Jewish heritage. It is derived from the Spanish word "pica" meaning "peak" or "point." This surname could have been given to people who lived near a peak or a pointed location. 3. Catalan Origin: In Catalonia, Spain, "Pica" or "Picà" can be a surname with its roots in the Catalan language. "Picà" is a past participle of the verb "picar," meaning "to prick" or "to sting." The surname might have originated as a nickname for someone who had a prickly or piercing nature. It is essential to investigate individual family records and history to determine the specific origin of the surname "Pica" for a particular family.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Pica

The meaning and origin of the last name Pica

The surname Pica has multiple origins and meanings across different cultures. In Italian, Pica is derived from the Latin word "picus," which means "woodpecker." This ancient symbol had associations with the worship of Mars, the Roman god of war, and was later adopted as a sacred bird by the ancient Oscans and Samnites. In this context, the surname Pica could have been bestowed upon individuals who exhibited qualities associated with the woodpecker, such as agility, determination, and resourcefulness.

Alternatively, the surname Pica could have its roots in the medieval Iberian Peninsula, specifically in Spain and Portugal. In this region, the name could derive from the Spanish word "pico," meaning "beak" or "peak," which could have been used to refer to someone who lived near a notable peak or had a prominent nose.

Overall, the surname Pica can be traced back to ancient cultural symbols or physical characteristics, highlighting the diverse origins and meanings of surnames across different regions and time periods.

Geographical distribution of the last name Pica

The last name Pica has a predominantly Italian geographical distribution. It is most commonly found in the southern regions of Italy, particularly in the regions of Campania, Calabria, and Sicily. Throughout history, these areas had rich Mediterranean trade routes and interactions with neighboring regions, contributing to the spread of the surname. In Campania, the provinces of Naples and Caserta have the highest concentration of individuals with the last name Pica. In Calabria, the surname is prevalent in the provinces of Cosenza and Reggio Calabria. Sicily, specifically the provinces of Palermo and Messina, also has a significant number of people with the last name Pica. While the surname Pica has remained most strongly linked to Italy, it could possibly be found elsewhere due to migration and population movement over the years.

Variants and spellings of the last name Pica

The last name "Pica" has a few variations and spellings across different regions and languages. One common variation is "Picca," where the letter "c" is doubled. This variation can be found in Italy, particularly in the southern regions such as Campania, Calabria, and Sicily. Another possible variation is "Picco," which is more common in the northern regions of Italy, such as Lombardy and Piedmont.

In Spanish-speaking countries, the surname "Pica" may be spelled as "Picas" or "Picás." Similarly, in Portugal, it can be spelled as "Picas" or "Pica." These variations reflect the influences of the Spanish and Portuguese languages on the surname.

There might be further variations or spellings of the name "Pica" in other countries or regions, as names can evolve and be adapted over time. It is always important to consider individual family histories and local customs when exploring the various spellings of names.

Famous people with the last name Pica

Unfortunately, there aren't any well-known individuals with the last name Pica that have achieved significant fame or widespread recognition in fields like entertainment, sports, politics, or any other prominent domains. It's important to note that fame and recognition are subjective, as different regions and communities might have their own local celebrities or figures who are celebrated within their specific circles. While there might be individuals with the last name Pica who have accomplished notable achievements in their respective fields or communities, their fame might be limited to a more local or specialized context. However, without specific details, it is difficult to provide any further information about notable Pica individuals.

Genealogical research on the last name Pica

The last name Pica is of Italian origin and is derived from the word "pica," meaning "magpie." The genealogical research on the last name Pica reveals that it has its roots in the southern region of Italy, particularly in the regions of Campania, Calabria, and Sicily. Historical records indicate that families with the surname Pica have resided in these areas for centuries. The Pica family may have been involved in various occupations prevalent in those regions, such as farming, fishing, or trade. Over time, individuals with the surname Pica may have migrated to different parts of Italy and even to other countries in search of better opportunities. Today, descendants of the Pica family can be found worldwide, particularly in areas with significant Italian diaspora communities. Genealogical research on the last name Pica may involve tracing ancestral connections, documenting historical events, and exploring personal narratives to uncover a comprehensive family history.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Pica"
• 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

Share the origin of your last name with your friends