Last Name Zaragoza

The surname Zaragoza is of Spanish origin. It is derived from the place-name Zaragoza, which is the capital city of the autonomous community of Aragon in Spain. People bearing this surname may have ancestral ties to that region or have migrated from it at some point in history. The name "Zaragoza" itself comes from the Latin name Caesaraugusta, meaning 'Caesar's town', which was given by the Romans during their occupation of the Iberian Peninsula.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zaragoza

The meaning and origin of the last name Zaragoza

The surname Zaragoza is primarily of Spanish origin, with roots tracing back to the city of Zaragoza in Aragon, Spain. It is derived from the Latin name "Caesaraugusta," which was given to the Roman settlement by Caesar Augustus in 25 B.C. The city's original Iberian name was Saracosta, meaning 'Stone Fortress.' Over time, the name evolved into its modern form, Zaragoza. As with many Spanish surnames, the adoption of the toponymic Zaragoza as a patronymic or hereditary surname occurred during the Middle Ages when individuals were identified by the places where they lived or hailed from. Today, individuals bearing the surname Zaragoza are found predominantly in Spain and regions with significant Spanish influence such as South America, particularly Mexico and Central America.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zaragoza

The surname Zaragoza is predominantly distributed in Spain, particularly in the autonomous community of Aragon, from which it originates. The city of Zaragoza, the capital of the region, has one of the highest concentrations of individuals carrying this last name due to its historical significance and large population size. In addition to Spain, the surname Zaragoza can also be found in Latin American countries with a strong Spanish influence, such as Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and other parts of Central and South America, where many individuals with Spanish ancestry reside. The presence of the name in these regions is often attributed to emigration and colonization during the Spanish Empire's expansion.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zaragoza

The surname Zaragoza has several variations and spellings, mainly due to differences in translation, regional dialects, and transcription errors over time. Some common spelling variations include: Zarraga, Saragosa, Sarazoga, Zaragozza, Sarragossa, Sarrazoca, SarraGoza, ZaraGoza, and Zurraguz. These variations often originate from different countries, with some being more prevalent in Spain or Latin America. Additionally, some families may have unique spellings due to individual interpretations or changes over generations. It's essential to consider these factors when researching genealogy or ancestry related to the surname Zaragoza.

Famous people with the last name Zaragoza

Prominent individuals sharing the surname Zaragoza include:

1. Jorge Luis Borges (Argentina) - A prolific writer and essayist, he is considered one of the greatest literary figures of the 20th century, known for his short stories, essays, and poetry. He is best recognized for his philosophical themes, fantastical elements, and metaphorical symbolism.

2. Juan Nepomuceno Zaragoza (Mexico) - A military officer and politician, he played a crucial role in Mexico's struggle for independence during the Reform War. He is celebrated as a national hero and the founder of the modern city of Puebla.

3. José Maria Zaragoza (Spain) - An important figure in the 19th-century Spanish art world, he was an influential painter and sculptor. His works showcased romanticism and realism styles, with a focus on historical themes.

These figures demonstrate a diverse range of accomplishments and contributions across various fields, including literature, politics, and the arts. They have all left indelible marks in their respective cultures and continue to inspire generations.

Genealogical research on the last name Zaragoza

The surname Zaragoza originates from Spain, specifically the city of Zaragoza, in the autonomous community of Aragon. It is one of the most common surnames in Spain and is also found among the Spanish-speaking population worldwide due to historical emigration patterns. The name's origins can be traced back to the Visigothic period, as the city of Zaragoza was under Visigoth rule before being conquered by the Moors. Upon reconquest by Christian forces in the 12th century, many locals adopted the name Zaragoza as a marker of their regional identity. Variations of the name include Zaragosa and Saragossa, reflecting different phonetic adaptations over time. The surname has been associated with notable figures including Juan Antonio Zaragoza y Borjas, a Spanish writer and politician, and José de Zaragoza, a prominent Mexican general who played a key role in the Mexican War of Independence.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Zaragoza"
• 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 June 2025

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