Scarano Surname in Italy

The surname Scarano is predominantly found in the Molise, Campania, and Puglia regions, with notable presence also in Lazio, Calabria, and Sicily. Historical records trace the name back to at least the 13th century, including documents from Grumo Nevano (Naples) dated 1271, and figures such as Cola Scarano, governor of Capua in 1527. The surname likely originates from the old Italian term "scarano," a variant of "scherano," which described a man with a somewhat rebellious or bandit-like character. This suggests the name began as a nickname for an ancestor who was possibly a minor outlaw or unruly individual. The hypothesis of a derivation from the Greek word "skarios" (meaning shelter or harbor for boats) appears less convincing given the geographic distribution and historical attestations. In contrast, the related surname Scarani is more typically associated with the Bologna and Milan areas, marking a clear distinction from Scarano.