Calandra

Calandra is a term that appears in several contexts, including as a surname of Italian origin, as the common name for a species of lark, and as the name of an industrial roller machine. The exact origins of the surname are uncertain, but it is regarded as Italian in origin and may be linked to occupations or places associated with rolling or grinding processes.

The Calandra lark is a medium-sized passerine bird in the family Alaudidae. It inhabits open fields and grasslands across parts of southern Europe, the Middle East, and western Asia. It is known for its ground-dwelling behavior, distinctive vocalizations, and preference for dry, sparsely vegetated habitats. The species is adapted to open landscapes and is often found in agricultural areas as well as natural steppes.

In manufacturing and processing, a calandra is a rolling mill or calender: a machine with multiple rollers that compress, flatten, or otherwise shape materials such as metal sheets, rubber, plastics, or paper. Calandras vary in the number of rollers, roller spacing, and drive arrangements, and they are used in metalworking, rubber production, and printing and textiles. The term can also describe equipment used to smooth or thickness-control sheets in various industrial contexts.

Notable people with the surname Calandra include professionals across fields such as science, the arts, and business, reflecting the name’s Italian heritage. Today, the surname remains in use in multiple countries, often among families with Italian ancestry.