Sicilian last names are deeply influenced by the island's complex history of conquest and trade, often featuring roots in Greek, Arabic, Spanish, and Norman French. Common names include Russo (meaning "red-haired"), Messina (derived from the city), and Caruso (meaning "boy" or "young worker"). Many Sicilian names end in -o, whereas northern Italian names often end in -i. Other quintessential Sicilian surnames include Catania, Palermo, Rizzo, Amato, Lombardo, and Romano. You will also find names reflecting professions, such as Ferraro (blacksmith) or Spadaro (swordsmith). Arabic influences are evident in names like Saia or Alba. Because of the large wave of Sicilian migration to the United States and Argentina in the early 20th century, these names are now globally recognizable. In 2026, genealogy research remains a popular pursuit for descendants looking to trace these names back to specific villages like Corleone or Cefalù, where local parish records still hold the history of these families dating back several centuries.