Last Name Vasconcellos

The surname Vasconcellos is of Portuguese origin. It is derived from the word "vasconcelo," which means a person from Vasconia, an ancient region in the Pyrenees located in the border between Spain and France. The name Vasconcellos was likely used to identify someone from this region who had migrated to Portugal.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Vasconcellos

The meaning and origin of the last name Vasconcellos

Vasconcellos is a surname of Portuguese origin that is derived from the ancient region of Vascocellos in the Minho province of northern Portugal. The surname is associated with noble families and may have originated from a place name signifying "the vassals of the Celts," highlighting a connection to Celtic tribes that once inhabited the region. The name Vasconcellos is believed to have evolved from the Latin word "Vasconum," referring to the Basque people, who were known for their distinct culture and language in the Iberian Peninsula. Over time, variations of the surname have emerged, including Vasconcelos and Vasconcelas, reflecting the influence of different dialects and regional accents in Portugal. Today, individuals with the surname Vasconcellos can be found across the world, with a concentration in Portuguese-speaking countries and regions with historical ties to Portugal.

Geographical distribution of the last name Vasconcellos

The last name Vasconcellos is of Portuguese origin and can be found predominantly in Portugal and Brazil. In Portugal, it is most commonly found in the northern regions such as Porto and Braga. In Brazil, the name is more widely distributed throughout the country, with significant concentrations in the states of Sao Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Minas Gerais. The surname likely originated from the historical Vasconcellos region in northern Portugal, which was known for its noble families. Over time, the name spread to other Portuguese-speaking countries through migration and colonization. Today, individuals with the surname Vasconcellos can also be found in other parts of the world where Portuguese communities have settled, such as the United States, Canada, and Australia.

Variants and spellings of the last name Vasconcellos

Variations and spellings of the last name Vasconcellos include Vasconcelos, Vasconcelles, Vasconcelis, Vazconcellos, Vaçoncellos, and Vaconcellos. These variations may be seen due to regional differences in pronunciation and spelling conventions. In some cases, the surname may also be shortened or anglicized to Vasco or Vascon. However, the most common spelling and pronunciation of the name is Vasconcellos. This Portuguese surname has its origins in the region of Galicia, Spain, and often indicates a familial connection to the town or region of Vasconcelos. It is a relatively common last name in Portugal and Brazil, as well as in other Portuguese-speaking countries. The multiple variations and spellings of Vasconcellos showcase the diversity and evolution of surnames over time.

Famous people with the last name Vasconcellos

One famous person with the last name Vasconcellos is Humberto de Alencar Castelo Branco Vasconcelos, a Brazilian military officer and politician who served as the President of Brazil from 1964 to 1967. Another notable figure with the surname Vasconcellos is Daniela Vasconcellos, a Brazilian journalist and television presenter known for her work on various news programs in Brazil. Additionally, Eduardo Vasconcellos is a prominent figure in the field of transportation planning and sustainability in Brazil, having authored numerous studies and publications on the topic. These individuals have each made significant contributions in their respective fields, with their surname Vasconcellos being associated with talent and success in various areas of expertise.

Genealogical research on the last name Vasconcellos

The surname Vasconcellos is of Portuguese origin, with roots dating back to the medieval period. The name is likely derived from the Spanish word "Vasco," meaning Basque, indicating a possible connection to the Basque region of Spain. The Vasconcellos family can trace its lineage to noble and aristocratic families in Portugal, with some members holding titles such as count or marquis. Over the centuries, the family spread out across Portugal and beyond, establishing branches in countries like Brazil and India. Genealogical research on the Vasconcellos surname may uncover connections to historical figures, royal families, or notable individuals in various fields. Today, individuals with the surname Vasconcellos can be found around the world, carrying on the legacy of their ancestors and preserving their rich heritage.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Vasconcellos"
• 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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