riera

Riera is a surname of Catalan origin. It is derived from toponymic terms that refer to watercourses such as streams or creeks, identifying people who lived near such features. The name is especially common in Catalan-speaking regions of Spain—namely Catalonia, Valencia, and the Balearic Islands—and among communities of Catalan descent abroad, including Latin America and parts of Europe.

In addition to its use as a surname, Riera appears in place names and geographic descriptors in Catalan-speaking areas, often denoting features related to streams or banks of watercourses. The term occurs in various localities and landscapes, helping to anchor historical settlement patterns in toponymy.

Individuals bearing the surname Riera have been active in public life and culture, with representation in sports, politics, and the arts within Spain and countries with Catalan heritage. The name is an example of how toponymic elements became hereditary identifiers in the Catalan-speaking world.