Siena is an Italian feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from the Etruscan city of Siena in Tuscany. The name has been associated with this historic city for centuries and has become synonymous with its culture, art, and rich history.
The city of Siena was founded by Senator Lucius Junius Brutus around 70 BC as a Roman colony named Saena Iulia. Over time, the name evolved into Siena, which is believed to be derived from the Etruscan word "Senna," meaning "moist" or "wet," possibly referring to the marshy area where the city was built.
The name Siena has been used as a given name since at least the Middle Ages. It gained popularity in Italy during the Renaissance, as many Italian families chose names inspired by their regional histories and cultural heritage. The name Siena has also been adopted by other European countries, particularly France and Spain, and has appeared occasionally in English-speaking nations.
While there is no specific meaning attributed to the name Siena beyond its geographical origin, it evokes images of beauty, culture, and history. People named Siena are often associated with their namesake city's renowned art, architecture, and traditions, such as the Palio horse race held annually in Piazza del Campo.
Today, Siena remains a popular given name for girls, particularly in Italy and other European countries. Parents who choose this name may do so because of its Italian roots or simply because they appreciate its unique sound and association with a historic city rich in culture and art.
"The name Siena experienced a significant increase in popularity from the late 1980s to the early 2000s, with a peak of 496 births in 2018. However, there has been a recent decline, with only 443 births recorded in 2023."