Vera-cruz Surname

The Origins of the Surname Vera-Cruz

The surname Vera-Cruz, also spelled Veracruz, has its origins in Spain and Portugal. It is a toponymic surname, meaning that it is derived from a place name. In this case, the surname Vera-Cruz comes from the Spanish words "vera" meaning "true" and "cruz" meaning "cross." The name likely refers to the True Cross, a relic believed to be a piece of the cross on which Jesus was crucified, and it is associated with the Spanish region of Veracruz.

Portuguese and Spanish Origins

In Portugal, the surname Vera-Cruz is most commonly found in the northern regions of the country, such as Porto and Braga. It is believed that the surname may have originated in one of the villages or towns located near the city of Braga, which has a strong cultural and historical connection to the Spanish region of Veracruz.

In Spain, the surname Vera-Cruz is most prevalent in the regions of Andalusia and Extremadura. These regions have a long history of Moorish and Christian influence, which may have contributed to the adoption of the True Cross as a symbol of faith and devotion.

Spread of the Surname Vera-Cruz

The surname Vera-Cruz is not limited to Spain and Portugal. It has spread to other parts of the world, including countries in Africa, the Americas, and Europe. According to data from various genealogical sources, the incidence of the surname Vera-Cruz is highest in Portugal, followed by Nigeria, Cape Verde, and Benin.

In Portugal, the surname Vera-Cruz is particularly common in the northern regions of Porto and Braga, where it is believed to have originated. It is also found in smaller numbers in other parts of the country, such as Lisbon and Coimbra.

In Nigeria, the surname Vera-Cruz is most prevalent in the southern regions of the country, particularly in the states of Lagos and Edo. It is believed that the surname may have been introduced to Nigeria through Portuguese explorers and traders during the colonial period.

In Cape Verde and Benin, the surname Vera-Cruz is also relatively common, with significant populations found in the cities of Praia and Cotonou, respectively. These countries have historical ties to Portugal and Spain, which may explain the presence of the Vera-Cruz surname in these regions.

Other Countries with Vera-Cruz Surname

Aside from Portugal, Nigeria, Cape Verde, and Benin, the surname Vera-Cruz can also be found in several other countries around the world. In Canada, the United Kingdom (specifically England and Scotland), Spain, Chile, the United States, Angola, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, Brazil, Germany, France, Mexico, the Philippines, and Russia, there are small populations of individuals with the Vera-Cruz surname.

While the incidence of the Vera-Cruz surname in these countries is relatively low compared to Portugal and Nigeria, it is still a part of the global diaspora of individuals with Spanish and Portuguese ancestry. The surname Vera-Cruz serves as a reminder of the shared history and cultural connections between these countries and the Iberian Peninsula.

Overall, the surname Vera-Cruz is a testament to the enduring influence of Spanish and Portuguese culture and history on a global scale. Its prevalence in different parts of the world underscores the interconnectedness of human migration and the lasting impact of colonialism and exploration.

The surname Vera-cruz into the globe

Globalization has meant that surnames distribute far beyond their country of origin, so that it is possible to get African surnames in Europe or Indian surnames in Oceania. The exact same happens in the case of Vera-cruz, which as you are able to corroborate, it can be said it is a surname that may be found in all of the countries of the globe. In the same way you will find nations in which undoubtedly the thickness of men and women because of the surname Vera-cruz is more than in other countries.

The map associated with Vera-cruz surname

1. Portugal (208)
2. Nigeria (79)
3. Cape Verde (28)
4. Benin (25)
5. Canada (15)
6. England (13)
7. Spain (9)
8. Chile (6)
9. United States (6)
10. Angola (4)
11. United Arab Emirates (2)
12. Australia (2)
13. Brazil (1)
14. Germany (1)
15. France (1)
16. Scotland (1)
17. Mexico (1)
18. Philippines (1)
19. Russia (1)