Grech: The Greek-y Name That’s Everywhere in Malta!

Have you ever heard the name Grech and thought it sounded a bit… Greek? You’d be right! Long ago, people in Malta started using the name Grech to show a connection to Greece. The name comes from the Italian word Greco, which means “Greek”

The name is really common, so common that it is one of the top eight surnames in Malta, especially popular on the island of GozoBut there is more history! In very old records, you can find people with the name written as Grecus, dating back to the Middle Ages, in fact, as early as 1277. Over time, it became the familiar Grech we know today.

And guess what? There are many famous people with this name:

Joe Grech was a famous Maltese singer who first performed in Maltese at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1971.

Prosper Grech was a Maltese cardinal and scholar, made a cardinal in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI.

Jesmond Grech is a well-known Maltese writer, teacher, and historian who has written many stories and books, including fun tales for children.

Xandru Grech is a Maltese athlete, coach, and sports personality who competed internationally and now helps others stay fit with his own fitness centres in Malta.

So next time you meet someone named Grech, you can tell them their name might mean “Greek” and that it is a very proud Maltese name, with many creative and talented people connected to it!

#MaltaDaily