Summary

The surname Alcantara is of Spanish origin, derived from the Arabic word 'al-qanṭarah', meaning 'the bridge'. It is believed to have originated from a place name referring to a strategic bridge in Spain. The Alcantara family may have been associated with the construction or guarding of bridges. Over the years, the surname spread to various regions around the world.
There are
12636
Alcantaras in the USA
Alcantara is the
2853rd
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Alcantara

AlexandraAlcantara

Alexandra Alcantara is a contemporary artist known for her mixed-media approach and exploration of themes of identity and culture.

JavierAlcantara

Javier Alcantara is a Spanish football player who has played for various clubs in La Liga and the Spanish national team.

MariaAlcantara

Maria Alcantara is a renowned opera singer from Brazil, known for her powerful soprano voice and interpretation of classical works.

CarlosAlcantara

Carlos Alcantara is a Peruvian actor and comedian, known for his roles in popular TV shows and movies in Peru.

AntonioAlcantara

Antonio Alcantara is a Filipino politician who has served as a senator and has been involved in various social and economic development projects.

PatriciaAlcantara

Patricia Alcantara is a Spanish fashion designer, known for her elegant and avant-garde designs showcased in international fashion shows.

FelipeAlcantara

Felipe Alcantara is a Brazilian soccer player who has played for several clubs in the Brazilian Serie A and the South American national team.

CarmenAlcantara

Carmen Alcantara is a Dominican-American author and poet, known for her works exploring themes of identity, immigration, and cultural heritage.

RaulAlcantara

Raul Alcantara is a baseball pitcher from the Dominican Republic who has played in Major League Baseball for various teams.

IsabelAlcantara

Isabel Alcantara is a Spanish actress, known for her roles in acclaimed films and TV series in Spain.

Alcantara Genealogy

OriginsThe surname Alcantara is of Spanish origin and is derived from the medieval fortress city of Alcántara in western Spain. The name is derived from Arabic elements meaning 'the bridge.'
Geographic DistributionThe surname Alcantara is most commonly found in Spain, particularly in the regions of Extremadura and Andalusia. It is also found in other Spanish-speaking countries like Mexico, Peru, and the Dominican Republic.
VariationsVariations of the surname Alcantara include Alcántara, Alcantar, Alcántar, and Alcântara.
Migration and ImmigrationThere has been migration and immigration of people with the surname Alcantara to various countries, particularly during periods of Spanish colonialism and economic migration. Today, there are communities of Alcantara descendants in countries like the United States, Brazil, and the Philippines.