Ricci Surname in Italy

The surname Ricci is very common throughout Italy, originating mainly from nicknames referencing physical traits, specifically curly hair. Related forms include Riccelli, which originates from the province of Catanzaro, and the rare Riccetti, found in multiple areas such as Pisa, Livorno, Ancona, Teramo, and Cosenza. Ricciarelli belongs to the toscoumbria linguistic tradition, especially in the provinces of Pistoia and Perugia, while Ricciarello is nearly unique. The surname Riccio is widespread across the peninsula, with a significant concentration in Campania. Some of these surnames also stem from medieval given names like Ricciarellus, documented in 1200 in Montieri (Siena).