Behold! The intricate map displayed above divulges the fascinating prevalence of specific surnames within each picturesque region of Italy. Yet, in this diverse land, even these prevalent surnames constitute a mere 1% of the staggering array of Italian surnames.

Medhelan, a keen observer and Reddit user, astutely highlights several captivating aspects of this surname distribution:

• The North/South divide delineated by the surnames Rossi and Russo—both meaning "red."
• In the northern reaches, variations of Ferrero, Ferrari, Fabbri, Fabris, and Favre abound, all denoting "smith."
• A conspicuous absence of surnames ending in -i in southern Italy, juxtaposed with their extraordinary prevalence in both the North and the Center.
• The unique presence of -n ending surnames in Veneto and Friuli, due to the elimination of the terminal -i.
• The intriguing Austro-Bavarian surnames populating Trentino-Sudtyrol and the Arpitan surnames adorning Val d'Aosta.
• Lastly, the stark contrast between the island of Sardinia and the rest of the Italian nation.

This compelling study of surnames unveils a rich tapestry of regional diversity and cultural influences that continue to shape the fabric of Italy.

Photo: Map found via reddit, originally from Italianismo