Portugal
By Sandra, regional contributor from Portugal.
In Portugal we generally give two Christian names as first names, for example Maria Helena or António Joaquim. Usually, these first names are followed by two surnames. The first is from the mother and the second is from the father. Imagine like this: Maria Helena Pereira Silva. “Pereira” is from the mother and “Silva” is from the father.
Maria is a very popular name in Portugal. It’s the name of Our Lady to whom Portugal is especially devoted. Usually, we use the name Maria together with another Christian name. In that case, the lady in question should be called by her complete first name, Maria Helena. But now is also popular to name the girl only by Maria.
For boys, Maria could be their second Christian name: Dinis Maria, José Maria or Manuel Maria are some examples. Nowadays it’s a very fashionable choice. Manuel, José, João, António or Pedro are the most common names for boys. Again, Saints names and the Catholic influence.
In 1970, when I was born, the most common first names for girls were Sandra, Sónia, Susana, Carla and Paula. However, ten years ago, the most fashionable names were Constança, Carolina or Mariana.
It’s considered polite and well appreciated to give the godmother/godfather names or put together the grandmas/grandpas names. My mother, for example, was named with the first name of her father’s grandma. My grandpa loved his grandma very much. It was his way to show his love for her.
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