Maristela

Maristela is a feminine given name used in Portuguese- and Spanish-speaking countries. It is a devotional name derived from the title of the Virgin Mary, Stella Maris, Latin for “star of the sea.” The name can be interpreted as a combination of Maria and Estela, both names that separately carry meanings of “star” or “sea.” The epithet Stella Maris has been associated with the Virgin Mary since the early Middle Ages, symbolizing her role as a guiding star for believers, and is particularly celebrated in Catholic maritime traditions.

Etymology

Maristela draws on the Latin phrase stella maris (star of the sea), a poetic rendering of the Virgin Mary's name. The first element is derived from Mary, whose Hebrew name Miriam had uncertain meaning (possibly “sea of bitterness” or “rebellious”) reinterpreted by Christian tradition. The second element, estela, comes from Latin stella, directly meaning “star.” The compounded name thus expresses a Marian image of unwavering guidance.

Notable Bearers

• Maristela Salvatori (born 1960), Brazilian artist and printmaker
• Maristella Agosti (born 1950), Italian researcher and professor
• Maristella Lorch (died 2018), American critic of Italian literature
• Maristella Svampa (born 1961), Argentine sociologist
• Jose Concepcion Maristela Sr. (1916–1979), Filipino military officer
• Trixie Maristela (born 1980), Filipino transgender woman, LGBT rights advocate, actress and beauty queen

The name functions as both a given name and a surname, as seen in the Filipino bearers above. Its prevalence is strongest in regions with Roman Catholic heritage, particularly Brazil, Portugal, Spain, Argentina, and among Lusophone and Hispanic communities.