Last Name Sepulveda

The surname "Sepúlveda" is of Spanish origin. It is derived from the place name Sepúlveda, which is a town in the Segovia province of Spain. The name Sepúlveda comes from the Latin words "sepulcrum" meaning "tomb" or "sepulchre" and "veta" meaning "open" or "accessible." Therefore, Sepúlveda loosely translates to "open tomb" or "accessible sepulchre." Over time, individuals with the surname Sepúlveda spread to various regions of the Spanish-speaking world.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Sepulveda

The meaning and origin of the last name Sepulveda

The surname Sepúlveda has its origin in Spain, specifically in the province of Segovia, where it originated in the town of Sepúlveda. The name Sepúlveda is derived from the Latin word "sepulcrum," meaning tomb or grave. It is believed that this surname was given to people who resided near a cemetery or were associated with such a place. The Sepúlveda family name traces its ancestry back to the medieval era in Spain. Over time, individuals with this surname migrated to different parts of the world, spreading the name to different countries. Today, Sepúlveda is a relatively common surname in both Spain and Latin America. It carries with it a rich history and signifies a connection to a particular place and heritage.

Geographical distribution of the last name Sepulveda

The last name Sepulveda is primarily found in countries with Spanish and Portuguese influences, particularly in Latin America and the Iberian Peninsula. In Latin America, it is most prevalent in Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, and Colombia. Within Mexico, Sepulveda is commonly found in the states of Jalisco, Michoacán, and Aguascalientes. In Brazil, it is more concentrated in the southeastern states of São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Rio de Janeiro. In Argentina, Sepulveda is found across the country but has significant concentrations in Buenos Aires and Santa Fe. In Colombia, it is commonly found in cities such as Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali. In the Iberian Peninsula, Sepulveda is particularly present in Spain, primarily in regions like Castile and León, Catalonia, and Andalusia. Furthermore, due to emigration and globalization, individuals with the last name Sepulveda can also be found in various other parts of the world, particularly in North America and Europe, where Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking communities exist.

Variants and spellings of the last name Sepulveda

The last name Sepulveda, derived from the place name Sepúlveda in northern Spain, has several variations and alternative spellings. Some common variations include Sebulveda, Cepulveda, and Cepulbeda. Additionally, Sepulvida, Sevulveda, and Sepulueda are also encountered, albeit less frequently. These variations may arise due to a multitude of factors, including regional dialects, immigration patterns, and evolving spelling conventions across different countries and generations. Sepulveda is a name that has spread beyond Spain, thanks to migration and diaspora. As a result, it is not uncommon to encounter alternate spellings or adaptations of this surname in countries with significant Spanish-speaking populations, such as the United States, Mexico, and various Latin American nations. Regardless of the specific variation or spelling, Sepulveda and its variants constitute a diverse and widespread surname with a rich historical and cultural background.

Famous people with the last name Sepulveda

There have been several notable individuals with the surname Sepulveda who have made their mark in various fields throughout history. One of the most famous figures is Francisco de Sepulveda (1490-1573), a Spanish philosopher and theologian known for his controversial views on colonialism and the treatment of indigenous peoples in the Americas. Another prominent personality is Claudia Sepulveda, a renowned Chilean tennis player who achieved international success in the 1990s and early 2000s. Known for her powerful game, she won several singles and doubles titles, leaving a lasting impact on the sport in her country. In the entertainment industry, Marisol Sepulveda has made a name for herself as an esteemed Mexican actress, best known for her roles in popular telenovelas and television shows. These individuals, among others, have brought recognition and contributed significantly to their respective fields, solidifying the Sepulveda surname as a part of their legacy.

Genealogical research on the last name Sepulveda

The Sepulveda surname is of Spanish origin and can be traced back to the medieval period. It is derived from the Spanish word "sepultar," meaning "to bury," suggesting a connection to burial grounds or the burial profession. The name Sepulveda holds historical significance as it belonged to one of the most prominent and influential families in Medieval Spain. Their roots can be found in the town of Sepúlveda, located northwest of Madrid. Over time, members of the Sepulveda family spread across various regions, including Latin America and the United States through migration and colonization. Today, individuals with the Sepulveda surname can be found in numerous countries, contributing to diverse fields and enriching the cultural fabric of their communities. Genealogical research on the Sepulveda name may reveal an extensive and fascinating lineage dating back centuries, connecting individuals to their ancestors and shedding light on their historical heritage.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Sepulveda"
• 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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