Palma is a feminine given name of Spanish origin. It is derived from the word "palma," which means "palm tree" in Spanish. The name Palma has been traditionally associated with the city of Palma de Mallorca, located on the island of Majorca in Spain. This city was named after a palm tree that was believed to have been planted by the Roman Emperor Augustus during his stay on the island.
The name Palma is thought to have been popularized by King James I of Aragon (also known as Jaime I), who conquered the island of Majorca from the Muslims in 1229. He named his daughter, born in 1236, "Palma," which contributed to the spread of the name throughout Spain and beyond.
While Palma is not a particularly common name today, it has been used throughout history by various notable figures. For instance, Saint Palma was a Christian martyr who was beheaded during the Roman Empire's persecution of Christians in the 3rd century AD.
Overall, the name Palma is a unique choice that carries with it a rich history and cultural significance. Its association with palm trees makes it a fitting option for those who appreciate nature and the beauty of the Mediterranean region.
"The name Palma experienced varied popularity over the years, with a significant rise from 1914 onwards, peaking at 97 births in 1918. After World War II, its usage began to decline steadily, reaching single digits by the mid-1960s and remaining low since then."