E. Rossoni notes that the surname probably derives from several place names, with a geographical concentration that places it preferentially in Sicily, with sporadic presence in the centre-north of the country.

F. Miranda specifies that the surname is almost entirely concentrated in Sicily, especially in the Messina area, with localities such as Alcara Li Fusi, San Fratello, Acquedolci and Militello Rosmarino, among others. It also appears in the areas of Catania, Syracuse, Palermo and Enna. Outside the island, it is recorded in Piedmont, Lombardy, Lazio, Veneto and Liguria. As for its origin, Miranda agrees with Rossoni on a toponymic derivation, and mentions as possible references the river Artino, near the hamlet of Nocria in the province of Macerata, and the Rifugio Malga Artino, in the province of Lecco.