Leniz

Interpretation
The most probable origin is that it comes from Leaniz: lea (gravel) and the ending iz, which indicates abundance, giving gravel place. The two principal rivers of the area of Markina-Lekeitio are the Artibai and the Lea, the reason why this reason is called the area of the Lea-Artibai.

History and Locality
The only caserio Leniz that exists is in Amoroto (near Lekeitio), although in Gipuzkoa there is also a house in the Valle de Leniz. In 1704, a Domeca Iturraran lived in the caserio of Amoroto, in 1745 a Juan Leniz, and in 1796 a Juan Manuel Ibanez de Aldekoa. From 1745, there begins to appear Leniz in Mendeja or Mendexa which seems to be your family branch: a Juan Leniz in the caserio Arrasate Erdikoa, and in 1796 a Domingo Leniz in the caserio Arrasate Erdikoa and a Manuel Leniz in the caserio Beazkoa.

Coat of Arms
Those of Amoroto: En azur, un losanje de plata, cargado de dos lobos andantes, de sable, uno sobreo otro, en los cuatro angulos del escudo una flor de lis de oro.

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