Alcântara Surname

Introduction

The surname Alcântara is a common surname in many countries around the world, with a rich history and cultural significance. In this article, we will explore the origins, meaning, and distribution of the surname Alcântara, as well as its variations and notable bearers.

Origins of the Surname Alcântara

The surname Alcântara is of Spanish and Portuguese origin, derived from the Arabic word “al-qantarah,” meaning “the bridge” or “the arch.” This suggests that the surname may have originated in an area with a prominent bridge or arch, or that the original bearer of the surname may have been associated with such a structure. The surname Alcântara is most commonly found in Spain and Portugal, but has also spread to other countries around the world due to migration and colonialism.

Spain

In Spain, the surname Alcântara is most commonly found in the regions of Extremadura, Andalusia, and Castile and León. It is believed that the surname may have originated in the town of Alcántara in the province of Cáceres, which is known for its historic bridge over the Tagus River. The surname has been present in Spain for centuries, and has been passed down through generations of families.

Portugal

In Portugal, the surname Alcântara is most commonly found in the Lisbon region, particularly in the parish of Alcântara. The parish of Alcântara is known for its historic significance and cultural heritage, making it a likely place of origin for the surname. The surname has a long history in Portugal, and has been borne by many notable individuals throughout the country's history.

Meaning of the Surname Alcântara

The surname Alcântara is a toponymic surname, meaning that it is derived from a place name. In this case, the surname is derived from the Arabic word “al-qantarah,” meaning “the bridge” or “the arch.” This suggests that the original bearer of the surname may have lived near a bridge or arch, or may have been associated with the construction or maintenance of such a structure. The surname Alcântara may also have symbolic significance, representing a connection or link between two points or entities.

Distribution of the Surname Alcântara

The surname Alcântara is most commonly found in Spain and Portugal, where it has historical roots and a significant presence. However, the surname has also spread to other countries around the world, particularly in regions with historical ties to Spain and Portugal, such as Latin America and the Philippines. The following is a list of countries where the surname Alcântara is present, along with the number of incidences in each country:

Spain (8713 incidences)

Brazil (5470 incidences)

Mexico (2898 incidences)

Philippines (1545 incidences)

United States (1467 incidences)

Spain (848 incidences)

Portugal (802 incidences)

Saudi Arabia (278 incidences)

Canada (258 incidences)

Guatemala (223 incidences)

Peru (121 incidences)

Bahrain (118 incidences)

France (94 incidences)

United Kingdom (69 incidences)

Venezuela (66 incidences)

Kuwait (58 incidences)

Australia (58 incidences)

Guam (49 incidences)

United Arab Emirates (37 incidences)

Angola (36 incidences)

Germany (34 incidences)

Cape Verde (26 incidences)

Argentina (21 incidences)

Singapore (17 incidences)

Gibraltar (16 incidences)

Chile (15 incidences)

Japan (15 incidences)

Netherlands (15 incidences)

And many more countries where the surname Alcântara has a presence, albeit in smaller numbers.

Variations of the Surname Alcântara

Like many surnames, the surname Alcântara has variations and alternative spellings in different languages and regions. Some common variations of the surname include Alcantara, Alcantar, Alcántara, and Alcázar. These variations may have originated from different pronunciations or transliterations of the original Arabic word “al-qantarah,” or from regional differences in the spelling and pronunciation of surnames.

Notable Bearers of the Surname Alcântara

Throughout history, the surname Alcântara has been borne by many notable individuals who have made significant contributions to their fields of expertise. Some prominent bearers of the surname Alcântara include:

Sancho Alcântara (16th century)

Sancho Alcântara was a Spanish explorer and navigator who played a key role in the discovery and colonization of the New World. He led several expeditions to the Americas, and was instrumental in establishing Spanish settlements in the region.

Isabel Alcântara (18th century)

Isabel Alcântara was a Portuguese poet and writer, known for her romantic poetry and lyrical style. Her works have been widely acclaimed for their emotional depth and evocative language.

Manuel Alcântara (20th century)

Manuel Alcântara was a Spanish journalist and political commentator, known for his incisive analysis and sharp wit. He was a prominent figure in the Spanish media landscape, and his writings have had a lasting impact on Spanish society.

María Alcântara (contemporary)

María Alcântara is a Brazilian actress and singer, known for her versatile performances and powerful voice. She has gained international recognition for her work in film and music, and has become a popular figure in the entertainment industry.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the surname Alcântara is a common surname with a rich history and cultural significance. It is most commonly found in Spain and Portugal, but has spread to other countries around the world due to migration and colonialism. The surname has variations and notable bearers in various fields, making it a versatile and enduring name with a global presence.

The surname Alcântara in the world

Globalization has meant that surnames spread far beyond their nation of origin, such that it is achievable to locate African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. Equivalent takes place when it comes to Alcântara, which as you are able to corroborate, it may be stated it is a surname that may be present in the majority of the nations for the world. In the same manner you can find countries by which definitely the density of men and women with the surname Alcântara is more than far away.

The map regarding the Alcântara surname

View Alcântara surname map

The likelihood of examining for a world map about which countries hold more Alcântara on the planet, assists us a whole lot. By placing ourselves regarding the map, on a concrete nation, we are able to start to see the concrete amount of people aided by the surname Alcântara, to obtain this way the precise information of all of the Alcântara you could currently get in that nation. All of this additionally helps us to understand not just where the surname Alcântara originates from, but also in excatly what way the people who're originally area of the family members that bears the surname Alcântara have relocated and relocated. Just as, you'll be able to see in which places they've settled and developed, and that's why if Alcântara is our surname, it appears interesting to which other countries associated with world it is possible that one of our ancestors once relocated to.

Countries with more Alcântara in the world

Alcântara Surname

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