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Last Name Requejo

What is the origin of the last name Requejo?

The surname Requejo is of Spanish origin. It is derived from the Old Spanish word "requejo," which means "little gong" or "small bell." This surname may have originally been occupational, indicating that the bearer worked with small bells or musical instruments that produced a sound similar to a gong. Alternatively, it could also be topographic, referring to a place where small bells were made or used. However, it's important to note that the exact origin of the surname may vary depending on the specific family line and region.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Requejo

The meaning and origin of the last name Requejo

The surname Requejo is of Spanish origin, primarily found in regions such as Galicia, Asturias, and Castile. It is derived from the medieval occupation name "requejador," which means "organ player" or "bagpipe player." This surname evolved from a nickname given to someone who was skilled at playing musical instruments, particularly those with reeds like organs or bagpipes. The name may also have originated from the Arabic word "al-rak'a," meaning prayer repetition, due to phonetic similarities and the historical presence of Muslims in Spain during the Moorish occupation. Over time, the spelling has been altered and variants such as Reqejo, Requejos, and others have emerged.

Geographical distribution of the last name Requejo

The surname Requejo has significant presence predominantly in Spanish-speaking countries due to its Spanish origin. It is most commonly found in Spain and some Latin American countries such as Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico. In Spain, it is particularly concentrated in the regions of Galicia, Castile and León, Extremadura, and Madrid, reflecting historical migration patterns. In Latin America, its frequency varies among countries, with Mexico having a notable number of people bearing this surname, followed by Colombia and Peru. The name's global distribution also extends to other Spanish-speaking communities around the world due to immigration and diaspora.

Variants and spellings of the last name Requejo

The surname Requejo has several variations and spellings, primarily due to differences in translation and regional pronunciation. Some of these variations include Requejos, Requeixo, Requexo, Requeijo, and Requexoe. In Portuguese, the name can also be spelled as Requejo(s) or Reiquejo(s). These alterations may originate from slight differences in pronunciation over time and across regions, leading to changes in spelling. However, despite these variations, all of these surnames share a common root and can generally be traced back to the same origin.

Famous people with the last name Requejo

One notable individual with the surname Requejo is Luis Miguel Domínguez Requejo, widely known as Requejo. He is a Spanish former professional footballer who played as a defender. He started his career at Real Madrid's youth academy and went on to play for several clubs in Spain, England, and Portugal, including Deportivo La Coruña and Sporting CP. Requejo represented the Spanish national team at both under-20 and under-21 levels, playing a crucial role in Spain's victory in the 2003 UEFA European Under-21 Football Championship. After retiring from professional football, he became a football agent and has represented clients such as Kaka, Juan Mata, and Sergio Ramos. Another notable figure is Eduardo Requejo, a Colombian politician who served as the Minister of Defense of Colombia between 2018 and 2022.

Genealogical research on the last name Requejo

The surname Requejo originates from the Iberian Peninsula, specifically Spain, and is primarily found among descendants of Basque immigrants. In the Basque region, it's often spelled as Rekee or Reko, which might suggest an original meaning related to a farmstead or farmhand. The name began to appear in records during the late Middle Ages, with early documented instances such as Martín Ruquio, born in 1427, and Tomás Requejo, born in 1518. Basque emigration to the Americas started significantly in the 16th century, particularly to Mexico, Peru, and other Spanish colonies. As a result, the Requejo surname is commonly found in these regions today, with notable figures including José Antonio Requejo, a Mexican politician, and Jorge Requeijo, a Cuban mathematician. Variations of the name include Requejos, Requejo y Ruiz, Rekeejo, and Rekayo.

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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