History and Significance of the Surname Capela

The History of the Capela Surname

The surname Capela is a fascinating name with a rich history that spans across several countries and cultures. It is believed to have originated in Europe, particularly in Portugal and Mozambique, but has also spread to other parts of the world over the centuries.

Portuguese Roots

One of the key origins of the Capela surname is in Portugal, where it is a relatively common name. The surname is believed to have originated from the word 'capela,' which means chapel in Portuguese. This suggests that the original bearers of the surname may have lived near or worked at a chapel, or perhaps were involved in religious activities in some way.

Portugal has a long history of seafaring and exploration, and it is possible that the Capela surname spread to other parts of the world through Portuguese sailors and immigrants. The incidence of the Capela surname in Portugal is significant, with over 3,000 individuals bearing this name in the country.

Mozambican Influence

In addition to its Portuguese roots, the Capela surname is also prevalent in Mozambique, a former Portuguese colony in Africa. The incidence of the Capela surname in Mozambique is even higher than in Portugal, with over 5,800 individuals bearing this name in the country.

It is likely that the Capela surname was brought to Mozambique by Portuguese colonizers and settlers, who established a presence in the country during the colonial period. The surname may have been adopted by indigenous peoples or individuals of mixed Portuguese and African descent, further contributing to its prevalence in Mozambique.

Global Spread

While the Capela surname is most commonly found in Portugal and Mozambique, it has also spread to other parts of the world over the centuries. Countries such as Angola, Brazil, France, and the United States have significant populations of individuals with the Capela surname.

In Angola, the incidence of the Capela surname is over 2,500, indicating a strong presence of individuals with this surname in the country. Brazil follows closely behind, with over 1,600 individuals bearing the Capela surname in the country.

In Europe, France has a relatively high incidence of the Capela surname, with nearly 600 individuals carrying this name. The United States also has a notable population of individuals with the Capela surname, with over 300 individuals bearing this name in the country.

Further Spread and Variations

Aside from the countries mentioned above, the Capela surname can also be found in smaller numbers in countries such as Colombia, the Philippines, Spain, Canada, South Africa, and the United Kingdom. Each of these countries has a small but notable population of individuals with the Capela surname.

It is interesting to note that while the Capela surname is most commonly found in its original form, there are also variations of the surname that exist in different countries. For example, in Brazil, the surname may be spelled as 'Capela,' while in Mozambique, it may be spelled as 'Capela'.

Overall, the Capela surname has a diverse and far-reaching history that encompasses multiple countries and cultures. It is a name that has stood the test of time and continues to be passed down through generations around the world.