Unveiling the Mystery of my Surname, Álvarez: My DNA Journey with iGENEA
Family name Álvarez
With a discerning curiosity, I embarked on the journey of tracing my familial roots through a DNA analysis with iGENEA. The personalized experience of discovering the ancient and noble roots of my surname, Álvarez, connected me to the courage and history of my ancestors, and introduced me to a newfound global family.
A sudden surge of curiosity led me to iGENEA for a DNA analysis. The opportunity to unravel the mysteries of my past, particularly those hidden within my surname, Álvarez, was too promising to ignore. The experience was utterly transformative, revealing an emotional and historical journey that stretched far beyond my expectations.
The initial process of my investigation was straightforward. Their team prepared a meticulous and personalized report that laid the foundations of my ancestry. Just as a tree extends its roots into the earth, my last name, Álvarez, was found deeply rooted into the rich soils of Spain, specifically, in the northwest region of Galicia.
The Álvarez surname, testing results disclosed, is of patronymic origin, derived from the personal name Álvaro meaning 'all guard'. This told me that my ancestors were likely men of great courage and strength. The name, I discovered, has had a reputation in military and political spheres during the medieval period. It often manifests in records dating back to the era of Reconquista, linking my lineage to individuals who played key roles in the successful 'reconquest' of Spain from Moorish influence.
Furthermore, it was fascinating to find that clusters of Álvarez individuals also existed in regions outside of Spain including Portugal, South America, particularly in Mexico, Chile, and Argentina. The dispersion was consistent with Spain's history of global exploration and colonization throughout the 15th to 19th centuries, sparking interest in tracking down family connections in these regions.
The test not only connected me to the illustrious past of my surname but also unveiled a connection to other Álvarezes around the world. It suggested potential genetic matches among the iGENEA database of individuals who have also embarked on this journey of self-discovery. I am now planning to reach out to these newfound relatives, further connecting with my “Álvarez” roots.
Overall, the iGENEA DNA investigation was an immersive exploration into my complex past. It has expanded my understanding of my name, Álvarez, and connected me to a countless lineage of individuals who bore it with pride and dignity. Having this in-depth knowledge does provide a kind of worldly solace and I have been imbued with a deeper appreciation for the profound historical and cultural components that form the patchwork of my identity.
U. Álvarez