ZOLA
Zola
Etymology: The surname Zola is of Italian origin, from the Venetian region of Italy. It is believed to have derived from the Italian word "zolla," meaning 'clod' or 'turf'. The surname may have originally been an occupational name for someone who worked with soils or may have been a topographic name for someone who lived near a patch of turf.
History: The Zola surname first appeared in historic records of the Venetian region of Italy. It gained prominence when the renowned Italian writer Emile Zola rose to fame in the late 19th century. Emile Zola was not of Venetian descent but his literary contributions helped popularise the surname beyond Italian borders.
Distribution: The Zola surname is relatively rare in Britain, with most occurrences traced back to Italian immigrants who settled in the country. While not as common as other surnames, the Zola name has maintained a presence in certain regions where Italian communities are prominent.
Notable Bearers:
- Emile Zola (1840-1902) - A highly acclaimed French writer and novelist, known for his influential works such as "Germinal" and "Nana".
- Gianfranco Zola (b. 1966) - An Italian former professional footballer who became a successful football manager, known for his tenure at Chelsea F.C.
- Lina Zola (b. 1985) - A British-Italian artist whose contemporary works have gained recognition in the art world.
Coat of Arms: The Zola family crest features a shield with symbols that represent ancestry and heritage. The precise design and elements of the coat of arms can vary depending on regional traditions and individual family history.
In conclusion, the Zola surname, though originating from Italy, has made its mark on British society through notable individuals and immigrant communities. Its history and significance continue to evoke interest and curiosity among those intrigued by the diverse tapestry of British surnames.
There are approximately 78 people named Zola in the UK. That makes it one of Britain's least common surnames. Only around one in a million people in Britain are named Zola.
Region of origin: Europe
Country of origin: Italy
Language of origin: Italian
Typical given names associated with the surname
Male
- Benjamin
- Daniel
- Gianfranco
- Joshua
- Leslie
- Marek
- Michael
- Miguel
- Patrick
- Timothy
Female
- Anna
- Christel
- Janet
- Julia
- Lauren
- Minnie
- Naomi
- Olga
- Patricia
- Sandra