Scarlato
Scarlato is an Italian surname. It is believed to derive from the word "scarlatto," meaning scarlet in Italian. The name likely originated as an occupational surname, possibly referring to a dyer or merchant who worked with scarlet cloth. It may also have originated as a nickname for someone who wore scarlet clothing or had a ruddy complexion.
The surname Scarlato is most commonly found in Southern Italy, particularly in regions such as Campania and Calabria. Variations of the name may include Scarlatti and Scarlata.
The name is associated with several notable individuals, including:
- Alessandro Scarlatti (1660-1725): A prominent Italian Baroque composer, known for his operas, cantatas, and oratorios. He is considered a major figure in the development of Italian opera.
- Domenico Scarlatti (1685-1757): Another renowned Italian composer of the Baroque period, and son of Alessandro Scarlatti. He is best known for his keyboard sonatas.
The etymology and geographical distribution of the surname suggest a strong connection to Italian history and culture.