Last Name Zarco

The surname Zarco has origins rooted in various regions, particularly Spain and Portugal, with possible Arabic influences as well. In Spanish, "Zarco" can mean "the crowned one," derived from "zarza," which means "thorny bush" or "crown." In Portuguese, it could be a diminutive form of the name "Jaime" (James), meaning "supplanter" or "he who supplants." The Arabic origin could come from "as-sark," which means "the king." However, it's essential to note that the exact origins may vary for different families with this surname due to the complex history of migrations and name adaptations.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Zarco

The meaning and origin of the last name Zarco

The surname Zarco is of Spanish origin, deriving from the medieval occupational name "el azarquín" or "azarque", which translates to "the Moor-slayer" in English. This surname was given to individuals who were known for their role in the Reconquista, a period in the Middle Ages during which Christian kingdoms of the Iberian Peninsula reconquered territory from Muslim rule. The name was often adopted by the descendants of those who played a significant part in the military campaigns against the Moors, symbolizing their bravery and contributions to the Christian cause. Over time, the spelling and pronunciation of the surname have evolved, with variations such as Zarcón, Zarco y Luna, and Zárate being found across Spain and its diaspora. The surname Zarco can also be found in other countries where Spanish influence is strong, particularly in Latin America.

Geographical distribution of the last name Zarco

The surname Zarco has its origins primarily in Spain and Portugal, with significant concentrations found in these two countries. In Spain, it is most prevalent in regions such as Castile-Leon, Andalusia, and Galicia, reflecting the historical spread of Moorish rule and subsequent Reconquista. In Portugal, it is more common in northern regions like Minho and Trás-os-Montes. Outside Europe, significant populations bearing the surname Zarco can be found in Latin America, particularly in countries with a strong Portuguese or Spanish influence such as Brazil, Mexico, Argentina, and Colombia. Additionally, there are smaller diaspora communities of individuals with the surname Zarco scattered across various parts of the world due to historical migration patterns.

Variants and spellings of the last name Zarco

The surname Zarco has several variations and spellings, reflecting its multifaceted origin and migration patterns throughout history. One common variation is Sarco, which is phonetically similar but may have different origins. Another spelling is de Zarco, suggesting a noble or aristocratic lineage in Spain, while Zarko or Zarkov are Slavic variations commonly found in Eastern Europe. Additionally, there are regional variations such as Azarco, used predominantly in parts of Latin America. The name also shares similarities with Azcarate and Azcarraga, other Basque surnames. These variations underscore the diverse heritage and migrations associated with the Zarco family name.

Famous people with the last name Zarco

Notable individuals with the surname Zarco include:

1. Francisco de Miranda y Haro (1750-1816): A Venezuelan military officer, political thinker, and independence leader. He is considered the father of Venezuelan independence and was one of the first Latin Americans to advocate for independence from Spain.

2. Antonio de Oquendo y Zárate, Count of Casa-Zarco (1743-1809): A Spanish naval officer who served during the American War of Independence and the French Revolutionary Wars. He is best known for his command of the Spanish fleet during the Battle of Cape St. Vincent in 1782.

3. Pedro de Zárate (c. 1540-1609): A Spanish-Mexican painter active primarily in Puebla, New Spain. He is considered one of the most important painters of colonial Mexico and is known for his religious works.

4. María Isabel Zarco (born 1984): A Mexican model who won the Miss Universe México 2006 pageant and represented Mexico at the Miss Universe 2006 pageant in Los Angeles, California. She is also a successful entrepreneur in the fashion industry.

Genealogical research on the last name Zarco

The surname Zarco has its origins in Spain, specifically in the region of Andalusia. The name can be traced back to medieval times and is derived from the Arabic word "zarka," meaning small or dazzling. One of the earliest known bearers of the name was Gil González de Zárate y Castro, who lived during the 15th century. He played a significant role in the Reconquista of Spain, helping to liberate Granada from Muslim rule in 1492. A notable descendant is Juan Ponce de León Zárate, who is credited with discovering Florida and Puerto Rico. The name has since been distributed globally due to Spanish colonization and migration, with a notable presence in Latin America, particularly Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Mexico. Today, the Zarco family can be found across various continents, maintaining their rich cultural heritage and contributing to diverse societies worldwide.

Last name distribution maps

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the surname "Zarco"
• 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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