Messina Surname in Italy

The surname Messina originates from the Sicilian city of the same name and is widespread throughout Italy, with the highest concentration in Sicily. It is closely linked to families of Jewish origin dating back to around 1492, when Jews were compelled to either leave Spain and its territories, including Sicily, or convert to Catholicism. Many Sicilian Jewish families adopted the names of prominent commercial cities like Messina to disguise their religious identity while secretly practicing Judaism. These individuals, known as marranos, faced harsh punishments such as arrest, torture, confiscation of property, and exile if discovered.