Abarca Family History

Basque, Spanish, and Aragonese: formerly most common in the Basque country and in Aragon, this name is generally assumed to be from 'abarca' ‘sandal’ (Basque 'abarka'), which refers to the traditional Basque peasant sandal or moccasin made of uncured leather. In the past this word was also applied to footwear made from wooden materials, and is probably derived from Basque 'abar' ‘branch’, ‘twig’.

Some scholars, however, think that 'abarka' is an old topographic term referring to a grove of holm oaks or kermes oaks.

In addition to its linguistic roots, this name also has a geographic significance. It is a habitational name from the village of Abarca in the province of Palencia.