Viola Surname in Italy

The surname Viola ultimately comes from the personal name Viola, and it has a broadly pan-Italian spread. The historical tradition attached to one of the family branches says that a Puglian house became feudal lords of Terranova as early as 1537, beginning with Ferdinando I, who gained distinction at the 1535 Siege of Tunis. From him several lines developed, including a Sicilian branch and another established in Rome. Over time the family was granted a number of noble titles and rights, among them Baron of Terranova, Lord of San Simone and Masseria Donna Laura, as well as the status of noble citizen in several Salento towns. The heraldic record also notes that the Sicilian line held the barony of Fontana Rossa, while the Roman branch received the privilege of the County of Castelforte. The coat of arms features a green uprooted tree supported by two golden rampant lions, with two wild roses above, and the Imperial chief.