Last Name Quijano

The last name "Quijano" is derived from the Spanish word "Quijano" or "Quijana," which is closely associated with the famous character Don Quixote. Don Quixote is the protagonist in the 17th-century novel "Don Quixote" written by Miguel de Cervantes. The character's full name is Alonso Quixano, but he changes his name to Don Quixote or Don Quijote in his quest to become a knight-errant. Over time, the surname Quijano or Quijana became associated with the character and his ideals of chivalry and romance, leading to the emergence of the last name "Quijano." It is a relatively common surname in Spanish-speaking countries, primarily in Spain, Peru, Colombia, Mexico, and the Philippines.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Quijano

The meaning and origin of the last name Quijano

The surname Quijano has its origins in Spain, specifically in the region of Castile. It is believed to be derived from the medieval Spanish word "quiero," meaning "I want" or "I desire." This suggests that the surname may have been given to individuals whose ancestors were known for their strong-willed, ambitious, or determined nature. Alternatively, there is another theory that suggests the surname Quijano is a variant of the surname Quijote, which is famously associated with the eponymous protagonist of Miguel de Cervantes' novel "Don Quixote." In this case, the surname may have been bestowed upon people who shared similar characteristics to the fictional character, such as idealism, chivalry, or perhaps a hint of eccentricity. Ultimately, the surname Quijano carries the ancestral significance of ambition or similarity to the renowned literary figure known for his adventurous spirit.

Geographical distribution of the last name Quijano

The last name Quijano, derived from the Spanish word "quiñones" meaning "oak," has a notable geographical distribution primarily in the Spanish-speaking regions of the world. It is most commonly found in Spain, particularly in the northern part of the country, specifically in the regions of Galicia and Asturias. Historically, these areas were heavily populated by people engaged in agriculture and livestock farming, which may have contributed to the prevalence of this surname. Additionally, Quijano can also be found in Latin American countries with a significant Spanish heritage, such as Mexico, Colombia, Argentina, and Peru. The migration of individuals from Spain to these regions, especially during the colonial era, played a role in spreading the surname. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Quijano demonstrates its strong connection to Spanish-speaking territories, both in Europe and across the Americas.

Variants and spellings of the last name Quijano

The last name Quijano presents several variations and spellings across different regions and historical contexts. One common variation is "Quijona," which might have originated as a phonetic alteration or translation in certain Spanish-speaking countries. Another potential variant is "Quejano," which could be the result of dialectal differences or misspellings. Furthermore, variations such as "Quijena" or "Quijina" may be found in different regions as a consequence of local dialects or transcription errors. It is worth noting that surnames often undergo changes during immigration processes or due to linguistic shifts, leading to additional possible spellings like "Kihano" or "Kixhano." The surname Quijano, regardless of the variation or spelling, exemplifies the multifaceted nature of names and their ability to adapt and evolve over time, reflecting the historical and geographical diversity of the individuals who bear them.

Famous people with the last name Quijano

The last name Quijano is not widely recognized as a famous surname in the mainstream context. However, there are several notable individuals who have carried this surname. One prominent figure is Juan Quijano, a Spanish painter known for his exceptional artistic skills during the late 16th and early 17th centuries. Another renowned individual is Maria Quijano, a respected journalist and news anchor who has made significant contributions in the field of media in Colombia. Furthermore, Guillermo Quijano de Benito, a distinguished lawyer and professor from Mexico, has gained recognition for his legal expertise and academic achievements. While the Quijano name may not be as commonly associated with fame as some other surnames, these individuals have managed to make their mark in their respective fields, leaving a lasting legacy of talent and accomplishment.

Genealogical research on the last name Quijano

The last name "Quijano" traces its origins to Spain, specifically the region of Cantabria. It derives from the word "cuencano," which means someone from the province of Cuenca. The Quijano surname can be found in various parts of Spain, but it is most prominent in Cantabria, where it has a long and distinguished history. Historical records indicate that the Quijano family has held a significant presence in the region since the medieval period. Over time, members of the Quijano family branched out and established themselves in other parts of Spain and eventually in different countries around the world, particularly in Latin America. Today, individuals with the last name Quijano can be found not only in Spain but also in countries such as Mexico, Colombia, Peru, and the Philippines, among others. In-depth genealogical research can help individuals discover their specific Quijano lineage and uncover additional familial connections throughout history.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Quijano"
• 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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