History and Significance of the Surname Mattessich

Introduction

The surname Mattessich may not be as common as some other surnames, but it certainly has an interesting history and significant presence in various countries around the world. In this article, we will explore the origins, distribution, and variations of the surname Mattessich in different regions.

Origin of the Surname Mattessich

The surname Mattessich is of Italian origin, specifically from the region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia in northeastern Italy. It is derived from the personal name Matteo, which is the Italian form of the name Matthew. The suffix '-sich' is a common Slavic suffix that indicates descent or belonging. This suggests that the surname likely originated as a patronymic, meaning "son of Matteo."

Distribution of the Surname Mattessich

The surname Mattessich has a relatively low incidence overall, with the highest concentration found in the United States. According to data, the United States has the highest incidence of the surname Mattessich, with 342 individuals bearing the name. This indicates that the surname has been adopted by Italian immigrants and their descendants in the United States.

United States

In the United States, the surname Mattessich is most commonly found in states with large Italian-American populations, such as New York, New Jersey, and California. It is likely that Italian immigrants with the surname Mattessich settled in these regions and passed the name down to future generations.

Argentina

In Argentina, the surname Mattessich has a smaller presence, with only 17 individuals carrying the name. This suggests that there may have been a smaller number of Italian immigrants with the surname who settled in Argentina compared to other countries.

Italy

Unsurprisingly, Italy also has a significant number of individuals with the surname Mattessich, with 14 recorded incidences. This indicates that the surname has deep roots in Italy, particularly in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region where it originated.

Croatia

In Croatia, the surname Mattessich has a small presence, with only five individuals bearing the name. This suggests that there may have been some migration of individuals with the surname to Croatia, perhaps due to historical ties between Italy and Croatia.

Canada, Australia, and Other Countries

Other countries with smaller incidences of the surname Mattessich include Canada, Australia, England, Sweden, and Paraguay. These countries likely have small populations of individuals with Italian heritage who carry the surname Mattessich.

Variations of the Surname Mattessich

Like many surnames, the surname Mattessich has variations in spelling and pronunciation, depending on the region and historical influences. Some common variations of the surname include Mattesi, Matesich, Matisevich, and Matissich. These variations reflect the diversity of languages and cultures that have influenced the surname's development over time.

Conclusion

The surname Mattessich may not be the most common surname, but it has a rich history and a presence in various countries around the world. Its origins in Italy, particularly in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, continue to be reflected in the distribution and variations of the surname among individuals of Italian heritage. Overall, the surname Mattessich is a testament to the enduring legacy of Italian immigrants and their descendants in different parts of the world.