Martels

Martels is a surname of French origin. It is believed to derive from the Old French word "martel," meaning hammer. This nickname likely referred to someone who was a blacksmith, a stonemason, or perhaps a soldier known for his strength and forceful actions. The name is most famously associated with the Frankish dynasty of the Carolingian Empire. This dynasty, known as the Carolingians or sometimes the Pippinids, rose to prominence in the 8th century. Charles Martel, a prominent figure of this family, earned his epithet "Martel" after his victory at the Battle of Tours in 732. He was a powerful mayor of the palace and effectively ruled the Frankish kingdom, laying the groundwork for his son Pippin the Short to become king and his grandson Charlemagne to establish the Carolingian Empire. While the surname itself has spread beyond this historical context, the association with the hammer and the Carolingian rulers remains a significant part of its history. Variations of the surname exist in different languages and regions, reflecting its historical diffusion.