Peruvian Last Names That Start With C – A Cultural Journey

Discover the rich history and cultural significance of Peruvian last names starting with the letter “C”. From Cabello to Códrova, these names carry stories of families, ancestral roots, and the diverse heritage of Peru.

Explore the meanings, origins, and notable figures associated with these surnames, gaining insights into the tapestry of Peruvian identity.

Calderón: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “caldera,” which means “kettle” or “cauldron.” It was originally a nickname for someone who worked with metal or who was in charge of the kitchen.

Calle: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “calle,” which means “street.” It was originally a nickname for someone who lived on a particular street or who worked on the streets.

Cama: This last name is derived from the Quechua word “qama,” which means “bed.” It was originally a nickname for someone who slept a lot or who was lazy.

Camargo: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “cámara,” which means “chamber” or “room.” It was originally a nickname for someone who worked in a chamber or who was in charge of a room.

Campos: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “campo,” which means “field” or “countryside.” It was originally a nickname for someone who lived in the countryside or who worked in the fields.

Canales: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “canal,” which means “channel” or “ditch.” It was originally a nickname for someone who worked on a canal or who lived near a canal.

Cancelo: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “cancela,” which means “gate” or “barrier.” It was originally a nickname for someone who worked on a gate or who lived near a gate.

Candamo: This last name is derived from the Quechua word “qandama,” which means “to be happy.” It was originally a nickname for someone who was always happy or who had a positive attitude.

Cañas: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “caña,” which means “reed” or “cane.” It was originally a nickname for someone who worked with reeds or who lived near a river or lake where reeds grew.

Cárdenas: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “cardo,” which means “thistle.” It was originally a nickname for someone who had prickly hair or who was stubborn.

Carhuapoma: This last name is derived from the Quechua words “qarwa,” which means “bald,” and “puma,” which means “mountain lion.” It was originally a nickname for someone who had a bald head or who was brave like a mountain lion.

Castilla: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “castilla,” which means “castle.” It was originally a nickname for someone who lived in a castle or who worked in a castle.

Castro: This last name is derived from the Portuguese word “castrão,” which means “castrated animal.” It was originally a nickname for someone who was castrated or who was considered to be weak.

Cayo: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “cayo,” which means “reef” or “sandbar.” It was originally a nickname for someone who lived on a reef or who worked on a reef.

Castillo: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “castillo,” which means “castle.” It was originally a nickname for someone who lived in a castle or who worked in a castle.

Cerna: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “cerna,” which means “sieve.” It was originally a nickname for someone who worked with sieves or who lived near a place where sieves were made.

Cisneros: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “cisne,” which means “swan.” It was originally a nickname for someone who was graceful or who had a beautiful voice.

Chauca: This last name is derived from the Quechua word “chawpi,” which means “middle.” It was originally a nickname for someone who lived in the middle of a town or village.

Coello: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “conejo,” which means “rabbit.” It was originally a nickname for someone who was quick or who had a lot of energy.

Colchado: This last name is derived from the Spanish word “colcha,” which means “quilt” or “bedspread.” It was originally a nickname for someone who made quilts or who sold quilts.

Peruvian Last Names That Start with C

Cabello

Cabello, a Peruvian last name of Spanish origin, is believed to derive from the Latin word “capillus,” meaning “hair.” It is commonly associated with individuals with dark, thick hair, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Calderón

Calderón is a Peruvian last name that originates from the Spanish word calderón, meaning “large kettle.” It is a common surname in Peru, with notable bearers including former President Francisco Calderón and writer Alfredo Calderón.

Calle

Calle is a Peruvian last name that is derived from the Spanish word “calle,” meaning “street.” The name is believed to have originated in the Basque region of Spain and was brought to Peru by Spanish settlers during the colonial era.

Cama

Cama, a Peruvian surname, originates from the Quechua word “kamaq,” meaning “creator” or “maker.” It is a common last name in Peru, particularly among those with indigenous ancestry. Notable individuals with this surname include Peruvian politician Manuel Camaiora and writer Francisco Camaaño.

Camargo

Camargo is a Peruvian last name of Spanish origin.

It is derived from the name of a town in Cantabria, Spain.

The name is also found in other parts of Latin America, including Mexico, Colombia, and Venezuela.

Campos

Campos is a common Peruvian last name of Spanish origin.

It is derived from the word “campo,” meaning “field” or “countryside.” The name signifies a connection to rural areas and agricultural roots.

Campos is also found in other Spanish-speaking countries, including Mexico, Colombia, and Argentina.

Canales

Canales is a Peruvian last name of Spanish origin, meaning “channels” or “canals.” It is a common surname in Peru, often associated with the coastal regions and cities like Lima and Arequipa.

The name has a rich history in Peru and has been passed down through generations, reflecting the diverse cultural and linguistic heritage of the country.

Cancelo

Cancelo, a Peruvian surname, carries the heritage of the ancient Inca Empire and the rich cultural tapestry of the Andes. It speaks of resilience and pride in one’s roots, evoking images of stunning landscapes and vibrant traditions.

Canchola

Canchola, a Peruvian surname with Spanish origins, is believed to derive from the Basque word “kantoila,” which means “corner” or “angle.” It may have been used to describe someone who lived on a corner or in a corner of a town or village.

Candamo

Candamo, a Peruvian last name, traces its roots to the ancient pre-Incan ethnic group that originated near the coastal area of northern Peru. It is believed that the Candamo name represents strength and resilience, characteristics associated with the original Candamo people.

Cañas

Cañas, a Peruvian last name of Spanish origin, is believed to derive from the word “caña,” meaning “reed” or “cane.” It is a relatively common surname in Peru and other Spanish-speaking countries, often associated with families from rural or agricultural areas.

Córdova

Córdova is a common Peruvian last name with Spanish origins, suggesting a connection to the city of Córdoba in Spain.

The name likely arrived in Peru during the Spanish colonization period and has since become an integral part of Peruvian identity.

Final Verdict

Peru boasts a rich tapestry of surnames, and this list showcases some intriguing last names starting with the letter ‘C.’ From Cabello to Córdova, each name carries its own unique history and cultural significance.

Whether they trace their origins back to Spanish conquerors, indigenous roots, or African influences, these surnames reflect the diverse heritage of Peru.

Embracing the etymology and stories behind these names offers a glimpse into Peru’s vibrant identity and the fascinating stories that unfold in its history.