Surname Altomari - Meaning and Origin

Altomari: What does the surname Altomari mean?

The last name 'Altomari' has Italian origins and is a combination of two words "alto" and "mari." The word 'alto' in Italian means 'high' whereas 'mari' means 'seas'. So, one could infer a possible meaning of the name as "high seas." It is common in Italy and other countries with significant Italian diaspora. It is important to note that surnames in Italy were often used as identifiers and were chosen based on a person's occupation, geographical location, or personal characteristic. While the exact historical significance of the name 'Altomari' is challenging to pinpoint without specific family history, it may have been associated with individuals who lived near or had occupations related to the sea. As with any surname, the meanings can evolve over time or have different interpretations within various family lines.

Altomari: Where does the name Altomari come from?

Altomari is an Italian surname derived from "alto" meaning high and "mare" meaning sea, potentially signifying a family originating from a high coastal area. As Italy has historically used patronymic and occupational surnames, Altomari could also refer to someone who works in high sea places or situations.

Today, the last name Altomari is common in several countries, notably in Italy, particularly in the southern region, where most Italian surnames have their roots. Besides Italy, it is also prevalent in the United States, Brazil, and Argentina due to migration, with the largest concentration being found in the U.S. Given the global proliferation of Italian culture and people, the distribution of the Altomari surname has become more widespread over time. However, compared to other Italian surnames, it is still quite unique and less common. Despite its rarity, people with the Altomari surname can certainly be found across the globe.

Variations of the surname Altomari

The surname Altomari is predominantly found in Italy, particularly in the southern region around Calabria. Variations of the name Altomari could potentially include Altomare, Altamari, Altamarino, and Altimari.

Surnames can drastically change with immigration, and they can also be influenced by language and translation errors. When Italian families moved to English-speaking countries, they often Americanized their names. Thus, Altomari could also become Altmari, Altmare, Altomary, or Altimary. The alterations may also include dropping or adding vowels: e.g., Altomar, Altomare, or even Altmare.

Other variations arise due to regional dialects and pronunciation differences. For instance, Altomare is a more common variant in northern Italy, while Altomari is prevalent in the south.

It's also possible that some different but phonetically similar names may be mistakenly connected to Altomari. For example, the Spanish surname Altamirano sounds similar but has a different origin.

Because these are all variations and potential misspellings of the surname due to phonetic interpretations, regional dialects, or anglicization, it's not guaranteed that individuals with these surnames share a common genealogical origin.

Famous people with the name Altomari

• Gaetano Altomari: Italian actor best known for his roles in films such as ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ and ‘The Others’.
• Lia Altomari: Swiss-born Italian television presenter. She is known for having hosted several Italian talent shows, such as ‘Giocare a Talent’, ‘Il Mondo di Lia’ and ‘Prendere a Talent'.
• Renato Altomari: a retired scientist and professor of biochemistry who, since his retirement, has actively worked to promote science in Italian society.
• Bruno Altomari: Italian entrepreneur and businessman based in Milan. He is the CEO of Altomari Enterprises, a technology and media company.
• Liza Altomari: Italian fashion designer based in Milan. She has created several collections for high-end clients and is known for her unique approach to fashion and design.
• Franco Altomari: Italian-born musician and producer who has worked with many of the top names in the Italian music industry, including Ligabue, Elisa and Max Pezzali.
• Luca Altomari: Italian soccer player who currently plays for S.S. Lazio in the Serie A League.
• Franca Altomari: Italian mountain climber and adventure guide. She is known for her expeditions to remote and challenging mountain terrain in the Alps and other parts of the world.
• Cosimo Altomari: Italian archaeologist and professor at the University of Macerata. He is renowned for his work in early Etruscan and Latin civilizations.
• Matteo Altomari: Italian artist and sculptor. His works can be found in many public art exhibits throughout Italy, including the Galleria dell’Accademia in Firenze.

Other surnames

Altomare