Show ContentsPrincipi Surname History

The surname Principi is derived from the Latin word "princeps," which in turn comes from "primus," which means "first" and "capere," which means "to take." This name was likely originally a nickname for someone who behaved in a regal manner.

Early Origins of the Principi family

The surname Principi was first found in Bolgna (Latin: Bononia), the largest city and the capital of Emilia-Romagna Region. The earliest origins of this name have been traced to the city of Bologna, where a member of the Principi family was involved in the government in 1249. The famous University of Bolgna was founded in the 11th century, by the 13th century the student body was nearly 10,000. Dante and Petrarch studied there. In those ancient times only persons of rank, the podesta, clergy, city officials, army officers, artists, landowners were entered into the records. To be recorded at this time was in itself a family honor. It is claimed that the Principi family has its roots in the 10th century, however, documented evidence starts in the 13th century when they held estates from 1249 to 1359 in the city.

Early History of the Principi family

This web page shows only a small excerpt of our Principi research. Another 132 words (9 lines of text) covering the years 1298, 1359, 1598, 1720 and 1769 are included under the topic Early Principi History in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Principi Spelling Variations

Italian surnames come in far more variations than the names of most other nationalities. Regional traditions and dialects are a decisive factor in this characteristic. For example, northern names tend to end in "o", while southern in "i". Also important, but not unique to Italy, was the fact that before dictionaries and the printing press most scribes simply spelled words according to their sounds. The predictable result was an enormous number of spelling variations. The recorded spellings of Principi include Principi, Principe, Principio, Principato, de Principe, Prinzi and many more.

Early Notables of the Principi family

More information is included under the topic Early Principi Notables in all our PDF Extended History products and printed products wherever possible.

Migration of the Principi family

A search of the immigration and passenger lists has shown a number of people bearing the name Principi: Juan Principe, who arrived in Mexico in 1538; Ines Principe, who arrived in Peru in 1592; Maria Principe, who arrived in Peru in 1598; Francisco Principe, who settled in Mississippi in 1794.



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