Last Name Vallat

The surname Vallat has origins that can be traced back to several European regions due to its polygenetic nature, meaning it was created independently multiple times. One possible origin is from the Old French 'vallet', a diminutive form of 'val', meaning 'valley'. This name could have been given as a topographic name for someone who lived in a valley or as an occupational name for a valet, a personal servant or attendant. Another theory suggests it might be derived from the Old German 'Walahat' meaning 'foreigner' or 'outsider', which was introduced to France during the Middle Ages by the Normans. However, it is essential to note that surnames like Vallat may also have different origins depending on specific geographical locations and historical contexts within Europe.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Vallat

The meaning and origin of the last name Vallat

The surname Vallat is of French origin, derived from various places named Vallats in the Occitanie region of southern France. The name is thought to be a form of "val de l'at," meaning "valley of the river At" or "valley of the ford." As a surname, it was likely adopted by individuals who lived near one of these locations or by those migrating from these areas during the Middle Ages. Over time, variations in spelling such as Vallats, Vallet, and Vallat have emerged due to differences in transcription and pronunciation over the centuries.

Geographical distribution of the last name Vallat

The surname Vallat has its origins primarily in France, where it is among the most common names in the region of Occitanie, particularly in the departments of Haute-Garonne, Aude, and Pyrénées-Orientales. Historically, these areas were part of the Kingdom of Aragon, which could explain the Spanish influence on the name. In Spain, Vallat is predominantly found in Catalonia, particularly in the province of Girona. Beyond France and Spain, the surname Vallat can also be traced in other countries with significant French or Spanish immigrant populations, such as Canada, Argentina, Uruguay, and Mexico. It's interesting to note that the name, derived from the Old Occitan word "valh" meaning 'valley', reflects the geographical origin of many bearers.

Variants and spellings of the last name Vallat

The surname Vallat has several variants and spellings due to regional dialects, transcription errors, and changes over time. Some common variations include Vallart, Vallatt, Vaillat, Vallet, Vallatt-Gaubert, and Vallad. These variations arise from differences in pronunciation and spelling conventions throughout history and across geographic regions. The original origin of the name is unclear, but it could potentially be derived from a place name or occupational surname, as it might have been associated with individuals who lived near a valley or worked as valets (servants). These variations serve to highlight the historical and cultural diversity of the Vallat family name.

Famous people with the last name Vallat

Andre Pierre Henri Vallat (1896-1987), a French zoologist and political figure, is one of the most renowned individuals with the surname Vallat. He served as the President of the International Office of Epizootics from 1931 to 1972, where he played a significant role in the global fight against animal diseases. In 1948, Vallat was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work alongside the League for the Protection of Birds (LPO). René Jean Marie Pierre Vallat (1864-1921) was another prominent figure. He was a French lawyer and politician who served as Minister of Justice under President Raymond Poincaré from 1913 to 1915. Vallat is remembered for his controversial anti-Semitic policies during the Dreyfus Affair, which caused a major rift within the French political landscape.

Genealogical research on the last name Vallat

The Vallat surname is primarily found in France and Spain, with origins dating back to the Middle Ages. In France, it originated from the Occitan region and was often associated with individuals who were landowners or noblemen. One notable figure bearing this surname was Henri Vallat (1895-1975), a French politician and writer, who served as the President of the League against Antisemitism from 1936 to 1944 during the Vichy Regime in World War II. In Spain, the Vallat family originated from Catalonia and was known for their contributions to politics, art, and literature throughout history. Notable Spaniards with the surname include Josep Vallés y Armiño (1853-1926), a renowned painter, and Joan Vallès i Tormo (born 1940), a prominent Catalan politician.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Vallat"
• 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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