* Regional Variations: Last names vary significantly across Portugal's regions. Names common in Lisbon may be less so in Porto or the Azores.
* Evolution of Names: Throughout history, Portuguese last names have evolved, with some becoming more or less popular over time.
* Immigrant Influence: Portuguese emigration and immigration have also impacted the prevalence of last names, particularly in countries like Brazil and Angola.
However, here are some frequently encountered Portuguese last names based on historical data and general observations:
Common Surnames:
* Silva: Meaning "forest," this is one of the most common Portuguese last names.
* Santos: Meaning "saints," this is another highly prevalent name.
* Pereira: Derived from the pear tree, this name is widely found in Portugal.
* Rodrigues: Meaning "son of Rodrigo," this name is common in Portugal and Brazil.
* Fernandes: Derived from the fern, this name is often seen.
* Costa: Meaning "coast," this name is prevalent in coastal regions.
* Sousa: A surname often associated with the nobility.
* Alves: A common name with an uncertain etymology.
* Martins: Derived from "Martin," a common Christian name.
* Gonçalves: A name with strong historical significance.
Other Notable Surnames:
* Dias: Meaning "days," it's a common name.
* Carvalho: Derived from the oak tree.
* Teixeira: A surname often associated with the textile industry.
* Ribeiro: Meaning "stream," it's common in river regions.
* Oliveira: Derived from the olive tree.
Important Considerations:
* Dual Surnames: Portuguese tradition often involves using two surnames, one from the father and one from the mother.
* Variations: Be aware of spelling variations and slight modifications to these common surnames.
To find a more specific list of common names for a particular region or time period, consider consulting Portuguese genealogy resources or databases.