Matteo is a name of Italian origin, derived from the Latin word 'Mattheus', which means 'gift of God'. The name has been popular in Italy for centuries and is often used to denote a person who is believed to be a gift from God.
The history of the name Matteo can be traced back to the New Testament of the Bible. In the Gospel according to Matthew, it is stated that one of Jesus Christ's disciples was named Matthias (also known as Matthew). This disciple was chosen by the apostles to replace Judas Iscariot after his betrayal and subsequent death.
Over time, the name Matthias evolved into Matteo in Italian-speaking countries. Today, Matteo is a common male given name in Italy, with many famous Italians bearing this name, including the renowned Renaissance artist, Mattia Preti, and the noted writer, Matteo Maria Boiardo.
In addition to Italy, Matteo has gained popularity around the world as a unisex name, particularly in countries such as Spain, France, Portugal, and even in English-speaking nations like Australia and the United States. The name's meaning and Italian origin contribute to its appeal, with many parents choosing it for their children as a symbol of divine favor.
Overall, Matteo is a timeless and elegant name with a rich history and meaningful signification. Whether used as a tribute to the apostle Matthias or simply chosen for its aesthetic qualities, this name remains a popular choice among parents today.
The name Matteo experienced a significant surge in popularity from the late 1990s onwards, with a marked increase from around 77 births in 1996 to over 2000 births annually starting from 2015. Prior to this trend, the name's popularity fluctuated considerably over the decades, with notable spikes in the early 1920s and late 1970s, but generally maintaining lower numbers of births per year compared to recent years.