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How to start genealogical research with only your family surname

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14 February 2025

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Discover the first steps to tracing your roots with online tools.

Genealogical research can seem daunting at first, especially when you have limited information. If all you know is your family surname and you want to trace your roots, the first essential step is identifying the regions where that surname is most common. Searching civil records requires both the year and the place of origin.

When specific details are missing, several online resources can help shed light on your family’s origins. Surnames are not evenly distributed across a country, and some are concentrated in specific areas. Using online tools can greatly simplify the process.

Here are some useful websites to get started:

  • Cognomix: A website that provides maps and statistics on Italian surnames, showing their distribution across various towns.
  • Mappadeicognomi: Similar to Cognomix, this tool allows you to visualize the geographical distribution of surnames in Italy.
  • FamilySearch: An international platform offering access to a vast database of genealogical records, useful for tracing your family tree.

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