Arias (surname)
Arias is a Sephardic Jewish and Spanish surname—that is, one that originates in the Iberian Peninsula (Spain and Portugal). Throughout history, members of the Arias family distinguished themselves as warriors and military leaders during the Reconquista, leaving a significant mark on the history of Spain. The surname has historical ties to the Sephardic Jewish community, for whom it held a special meaning: "the lion of Israel is on high."