Varela Last Name Origin, History, and Meaning
Where did the surname Varela come from? What does the surname Varela mean? Discover the history and meaning of the last name Varela and family migration on YourRoots Map.
Surname Varela Origin: What does the last name Varela mean?
The surname Varela is of Galician, Spanish, and Portuguese origin, originating from Galicia. With a history dating back to the early 16th century in Germany, the Varela surname has seen significant growth in the 17th and 18th centuries, particularly in Mexico. By the 20th century, it had spread globally, with notable concentrations in Mexico and the United States. Today, the surname remains prominent in Mexico and has expanded to various countries worldwide, reflecting its enduring presence and global reach.
YourRoots data confirms the historical presence of the Varela surname in the United Kingdom since the early 10th century, with subsequent expansion to countries like France. The surname's wide-reaching influence is evident in its current prevalence in diverse regions such as India, Spain, Argentina, Germany, and beyond. The Varela surname's evolution over the centuries highlights a rich heritage rooted in Galicia, Spain, and Portugal, making it a significant and widespread name across various cultures and countries.
Varela Last Name History: Where did the last name Varela come from?
Origin of Varela Surname: Where does the last name Varela originate from?
According to YourRoots data, the surname Varela first appeared in records from Germany around the early 16th century. Please note that this reflects only YourRoots data for the exact Varela spelling and does not include other record sources or surname variations.
History of the Last Name Varela: What does the Varela surname history look like in the early days?
The Varela surname started growing notably in the 17th and 18th centuries, with significant frequencies recorded in Mexico. YourRoots data also shows Varela family records in countries like the United States, indicating global spread over the centuries.
Global Spread: Where can we find the Varela surname today?
By the 20th century, the volume of records with the Varela surname grew significantly in Mexico and the United States. The Varela surname remains prominent in Mexico and has spread to various countries, including the United States and other regions worldwide.
Explore Varela last name heritage and Varela surname origin based on YourRoots Map data

Famous People With Varela Surame?
Leonor Varela
Leonor Magdalena Varela Palma (born Dec 29, 1972) is a Chilean actress known for her roles in "Cleopatra" and "Blade II." She also appeared in "Arrested Development" and "Stargate: Atlantis." Varela was engaged to Billy Zane and later married producer Lucas Akoskin, with whom she had two children. She is a marine life activist and vegetarian, advocating for whale welfare. Sadly, her son Matteo passed away at the age of 5 due to leukodystrophy. Varela continues to act and support various causes, showcasing her talent and compassion in both her personal and professional life.
Matias Varela
Louis Matias Karl Padin Varela (born 23 Jun 1980) is a Swedish actor known for his roles in various TV series and films. Growing up in Stockholm, Varela learned Swedish later in life and pursued acting after being inspired by a friend. He gained international recognition for his role in the hit TV series Narcos and has appeared in projects such as Assassin's Creed and Raised by Wolves. Fluent in multiple languages, Varela continues to showcase his talent on both the big and small screens.
Guillermo Varela
Guillermo Varela Olivera (Mar 24, 1993 - ) is a Uruguayan professional footballer known for his role as a right-back for Flamengo and the Uruguay national team. Starting his career with Peñarol, Varela made a notable move to Manchester United in 2013, followed by loan spells at Real Madrid Castilla and Eintracht Frankfurt. He returned to Peñarol before joining FC Copenhagen and then Dynamo Moscow. Varela ultimately found his way back to South America by joining Flamengo on loan, later securing a permanent deal. With international experience at the FIFA World Cup and as a runner-up at the 2013 FIFA U-20 World Cup, Varela's football journey is one of resilience and success.
Wilber Varela
Wilber Alirio Varela Fajardo (November 6, 1957 – 2008), also known as Jabón ("Soap"), was a Colombian drug trafficker and leader of the Norte del Valle Cartel. Indicted by the U.S. Department of Justice for exporting over $10 billion worth of cocaine to the U.S., he was known for his ruthless tactics and involvement in violent conflicts within the cartel. Varela's criminal activities led to a $5 million reward for his arrest. Despite attempts to turn his group into a paramilitary organization, Varela's reign ended with his death, leaving a legacy of fear and chaos in Colombia's drug trade.
Juan Carlos Varela
Juan Carlos Varela Rodríguez (December 13, 1961 - ) is a Panamanian businessman and former politician who served as the 37th president of Panama from 2014 to 2019. Varela, a member of the Panameñistas party, won the presidential election in 2014 and focused on combating corruption and improving the country's economy. Despite his efforts, he faced controversies related to corruption scandals and money laundering allegations. Varela's political career was marked by his close ties to the U.S. government and his efforts to strengthen diplomatic relations. He continues to be a prominent figure in Panamanian politics.
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