Last Name Ricci

The last name "Ricci" has Italian origins. It is a patronymic surname derived from the given name "Ricco," which itself is an Italian variant of the name Richard. The name "Ricci" means "curly" or "curled" in Italian, and it was likely used to describe a person with curly hair or a curly-haired ancestor. The surname is predominantly found in Italy and among Italian diaspora populations around the world.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ricci

The meaning and origin of the last name Ricci

The surname Ricci is a popular Italian last name derived from the Italian word "riccio," which translates to "curly" or "frizzy." This surname has its origins in the Middle Ages when it was commonly used as a nickname for individuals with curly or wavy hair. As the Italian language evolved, the nickname gradually transformed into a hereditary surname passed down through generations. Today, the surname Ricci is widely distributed throughout Italy, with concentrations primarily in the central regions, such as Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, and Umbria. Over time, many individuals with the surname Ricci migrated to various parts of the world, including the Americas and other European countries. As a result, the surname Ricci has become well-established in many global communities, maintaining its original association with curly or frizzy hair despite any individuals' appearance who bear the name today.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ricci

The last name Ricci is primarily found in Italy, particularly in the region of Emilia-Romagna. This region, located in northern Italy, is considered the stronghold of the Ricci surname. Within Emilia-Romagna, the city of Bologna and its surrounding areas have a significant concentration of individuals with the Ricci last name.

However, the name Ricci can also be found in other regions of Italy, such as Tuscany, Lombardy, and Marche, although to a lesser extent. There are also some occurrences of the Ricci surname in other European countries, particularly in France, where it is believed to have been imported during historical periods of migration between Italy and France.

Furthermore, due to global migration and diaspora, individuals with the last name Ricci can also be found in other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, Argentina, Brazil, and Australia, among others. Nevertheless, the concentration of individuals with the Ricci surname remains highest in its Italian homeland.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ricci

The last name Ricci, originating from Italy, has several variations and spellings. One of the most common variations is Ritchie, which is an anglicized spelling often found in English-speaking countries. Another variation is Ritchey, which also appears as a surname in English-speaking regions. In addition, the last name can be spelled Richie or Richey, both of which are alternative forms frequently used. Furthermore, there are additional variations derived from different regional dialects in Italy, such as Riccio or Ricca. These variants reflect the evolution of the surname over time and its adaptation to various languages and cultures. Whether it is Ricci, Ritchie, Ritchey, Richie, Richey, Riccio, or Ricca, all these variations are connected through their common Italian origin and continue to be part of diverse family histories around the world.

Famous people with the last name Ricci

One of the most renowned families with the last name Ricci is the Ricci family from Italy. One of its most notable members is the famous Renaissance mathematician and geographer, Bartolomeo Ricci, who was born in the 16th century. Bartolomeo Ricci's contributions to mathematics and geography have left a lasting impact on our understanding of these disciplines. Another famous Ricci family member is Christina Ricci, a well-known American actress and producer. Christina has achieved international fame for her roles in films such as "The Addams Family," "Sleepy Hollow," and "Monster." Her talent and versatility have made her a beloved figure in the entertainment industry. Additionally, Enzo Ricci, an acclaimed Italian historian and professor, has greatly contributed to the field of history through his extensive research and writings. The Ricci family's diverse achievements in various fields have made them a prominent name across different spheres.

Genealogical research on the last name Ricci

The last name Ricci is an Italian surname with its roots in the region of Tuscany. It is derived from the Latin word "riccus," meaning "curly" or "curled." The surname likely originated as a nickname for individuals with curly hair. The genealogical research on the name Ricci reveals a rich history and widespread distribution. The earliest recorded instances of the surname can be traced back to the medieval era in Italy. Over time, the Ricci family branched out and expanded, with members settling in various parts of Italy, as well as in other countries through migration. Notable individuals bearing the name Ricci include the renowned astronomer and mathematician Giovanni Battista Riccioli and the Italian politician Enrico Ricci. Today, the name Ricci continues to be found across the globe, predominantly in Italy, the United States, Brazil, Argentina, and other countries with Italian diaspora communities.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Ricci"
• 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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