ALBUQUERQUE

Albuquerque

Albuquerque is a surname with Portuguese origins that is relatively uncommon in British society. It is believed to have been derived from the name of a city in Portugal, Alburquerque. The etymology of the name is thought to be Arabic, originally meaning "white oak".

History

The Albuquerque surname is associated with Portuguese noble families, particularly the prominent House of Albuquerque, which played a significant role in the history of Portugal and its empire. The family produced many illustrious figures, including Afonso de Albuquerque, a renowned Portuguese general and statesman who served as the second governor of Portuguese India in the early 16th century.

Distribution

While the surname Albuquerque is more commonly found in Portuguese-speaking countries and their former colonies, such as Brazil and Portugal, there are still individuals with this surname residing in the United Kingdom. The presence of the Albuquerque surname in Britain can be attributed to migration and historical connections between Portugal and the UK.

Notable Individuals

• Afonso de Albuquerque (1453-1515): Portuguese general and statesman, known for his role in establishing Portuguese dominance in the Indian Ocean region.
• Luísa de Albuquerque (1927-2013): Acclaimed Portuguese artist known for her unique paintings and contributions to the art world.

Cultural Significance

The Albuquerque surname bears historical significance, representing a noble lineage with ties to Portugal's colonial past and cultural heritage. While not as common as some other surnames, individuals carrying the Albuquerque name often take pride in their ancestry and the historical legacy associated with it.

Typical given names associated with the surname

Male

• Afonso
• Antonio
• Bernard
• Bruno
• Carlos
• Fernando
• Glyn
• Joao
• John
• Jose
• Nelson
• Rui

Female

• Ana
• Carla
• Dorothy
• Gracia
• Ilda
• Maria
• Marina
• Monica
• Ruth
• Sara