Last Name Tajes

The surname Tajes is believed to have origins in Spain. It derives from the Latin personal name "Theodosius," which means "gift of God." In Spanish, it evolved into "Téodosio" and then was later shortened and slightly altered over time to become "Tajes." However, it's important to note that surnames can have various origins depending on specific regional variations and historical circumstances.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Tajes

The meaning and origin of the last name Tajes

The surname Tajes is of Basque origin, a historical region spanning parts of Spain and France known for its distinctive culture and language. The name Tajes, like many Basque surnames, is believed to have been derived from a place name or a descriptive term. Specifically, the name could be associated with the Basque word "taza" meaning 'bowl' or 'dish', or it may have originated from a specific geographical location in the Basque Country that has since been lost to time. Over centuries, various spellings and transliterations of the name have emerged due to phonetic changes and regional dialects. Today, the surname Tajes is most commonly found among Basque communities, but it has also spread worldwide through migration and assimilation.

Geographical distribution of the last name Tajes

The last name Tajes is primarily concentrated in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly Mexico and other Latin American nations such as Cuba, Dominican Republic, and Puerto Rico. In Mexico, it's most prevalent in the states of Jalisco, Guanajuato, and Michoacán, reflecting its probable indigenous or regional origin within those regions. Outside Latin America, small populations with the surname Tajes can also be found in Spain and the United States, often as a result of migration from Mexico or other Spanish-speaking countries. However, it's important to note that the distribution could vary based on different data sources and methods of study.

Variants and spellings of the last name Tajes

The surname Tajes can have various spelling variations due to differences in pronunciation, transliteration, and regional dialects. Some possible spelling variations of Tajes include Taje, Tahes, Tejes, Taias, Taiaz, Tayas, and Thahes. These variations may arise from minor typographical errors, intentional changes, or cultural influences in different countries where the surname is found. It's essential to note that the correct spelling of a name can sometimes be subjective and depends on personal preference, regional conventions, or historical records. When researching genealogy or performing academic work, it's crucial to consider multiple variations to ensure comprehensive results.

Famous people with the last name Tajes

Notable individuals with the surname Tajes include:

1. Carlos Alberto Tajes (born 1942), a former professional footballer from Colombia who played as a defender for clubs such as Millonarios, Deportivo Cali, and Independiente Santa Fe. He was also part of the Colombian national team that participated in the 1962 FIFA World Cup.

2. Jorge Tajes (born 1953), a Cuban-American writer, literary critic, and essayist. His works include "La muerte de Julio Álvarez" and "El espectador que se queda en casa." He has also worked as an editor for various publications.

3. José Tajes (1926–2018), a Spanish painter who was part of the Generation of the 50s. His work is characterized by his exploration of abstract expressionism and figurative art, and he has exhibited his paintings both in Spain and internationally.

4. María Amparo Tajes (born 1963), a Colombian singer and actress who rose to fame as a member of the pop group Sonora Santo Domingo. She has also had a successful career as a solo artist, releasing multiple albums and performing on various television shows in Colombia.

Genealogical research on the last name Tajes

The surname Tajes originates from the Basque region in Spain and is believed to have derived from various place names, such as Taja or Taia, located in the provinces of Alava and Gipuzkoa. Historically, the Tajes family has been associated with the agricultural and pastoral communities of the Basque Country, and some members have migrated to other parts of Spain and Europe over the centuries. Notable individuals bearing the surname Tajes include Francisco Javier Tajes, a Spanish politician who served as Minister of Defense in 1976, and Juan Antonio Tajes, a Basque painter known for his expressive landscapes and figurative works. The Tajes family is considered to be one of the oldest and most distinguished families in the Basque Country, with a rich history that spans multiple generations.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Tajes"
• 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 : 28 July 2025

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