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Last Name Ubeda

What is the origin of the last name Ubeda?

The surname Ubeda is a Spanish patronymic name derived from the given name Uberto or Alberto, which itself has Germanic roots. The name Uberto (Albert in English) was introduced into Spain by the Visigoths during the Middle Ages and became popular due to Saint Albert of Troyes, who played an important role in the Christianization of Europe. In Spanish-speaking regions, the surname Ubeda is typically a variant or derivative of the name Alberto or other related names.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Ubeda

The meaning and origin of the last name Ubeda

The surname Ubeda originates from Spain, specifically from the region of Andalusia. It is a toponymic surname, derived from a place name, specifically from the town of Ubeda located in the province of Jaén. The town's name is believed to have come from the Arabic "Wabada" or "Awbada," meaning "the green plain." The surname Ubeda spread throughout Spain during the Middle Ages as families migrated and settled in different regions. Today, it is a common Spanish surname and can be found among various Spanish-speaking populations around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Ubeda

The surname Ubeda is primarily found in Spain, particularly in the regions of Andalusia and Extremadura. It originates from the city of Úbeda, located in Jaén province, Andalusia. This name is associated with the Moorish conquest due to the city's former Arabic name, Wabada. Over time, the surname Ubeda has spread beyond Spain, reaching countries such as Argentina, Mexico, and Colombia, particularly among Spanish immigrants during the colonization period. In these countries, it is often one of the most common last names. The name also appears in Puerto Rico due to immigration from Spain and Canary Islands.

Variants and spellings of the last name Ubeda

The surname Ubeda has several variants and spellings due to historical transcription errors and regional dialects. Some common variations include Obeda, Ovieda, Obeda, Hueda, Uveda, and Ubidia. These variations may arise from changes in spelling over time or the influence of different languages on Spanish surnames. For instance, "O" can sometimes be replaced with "H" (as in Hueda) due to phonetic shifts, while "Ubeda" can become "Uveda" through a minor spelling alteration. It's important to note that the correct spelling of a Spanish surname often depends on its geographical origin within Spain and personal preference.

Famous people with the last name Ubeda

The Ubeda surname is prominent across various fields, with several notable figures associated with it. In the realm of music, José Tomás Ubeda is renowned for his operatic performances and has held roles at prestigious institutions such as the Metropolitan Opera and the Teatro alla Scala. In the art world, Diego de Ubeda was a significant figure during the Spanish Renaissance; he served as an architect and sculptor, contributing to the creation of several iconic structures including the Cathedral of Toledo. In the sports sector, Juanjo Ubeda is a professional tennis player who has achieved notable success in both singles and doubles competitions. Furthermore, Elena Ubeda, a Spanish journalist, has made her mark in media as the former editor of El País, one of Spain's most influential newspapers. These figures exemplify the diverse achievements and impact of individuals with the last name Ubeda.

Genealogical research on the last name Ubeda

The surname Ubeda originates from Spain and is prevalent in the Andalusian region. It is a patronymic surname derived from the personal name "Ubedo," itself a variation of the name "Ubeto" or "Hudu" of Moorish origin, which was adopted by Christian converts during the Middle Ages. The name Ubeda was often used as a place name for towns in Spain, most notably Ubeda in Jaén province and Puerto de Ubeda in Cádiz province. Notable individuals bearing this surname include Juan Ponce de León Ubilla y Barriga, a Spanish conquistador, and Francisco de Ubeda, a notable Spanish composer and musician of the Renaissance period. The surname has spread globally due to migration, particularly to Latin America and the United States.

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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