Renaissance Boy Names from Florence

Marciano is a masculine name with Latin and Italian origins, derived from Marcus or Mars, the Roman god of war. The name literally means 'belonging to Mars' or 'of Mars,' carrying connotations of strength, vigor, and masculine energy. Popular in Italy, Spain, and Latin American countries, Marciano combines classical roots with a melodious quality typical of Romance languages. The name gained international recognition through Rocky Marciano, the undefeated heavyweight boxing champion of the 1950s. While maintaining strong traditional roots, the name has a distinctive quality that sets it apart from more common derivatives of Marcus. Marciano offers families a name with historical depth, cultural richness, and a strong masculine presence while still having a certain musical flow to its pronunciation.

A handsome and romantic-sounding European option.

This attractively energetic Italian version of the classic Matthew is primed to move further and further into mainstream American nomenclature. Mateo is technically the Spanish version, but many parents in the US use the two spellings interchangeably.

Niccolo is a masculine Italian name, the equivalent of Nicholas in English. Derived from Greek elements meaning "victory of the people," Niccolo carries a strong, victorious connotation. The name gained historical prominence through figures like Niccolò Machiavelli, the Renaissance political philosopher, and Niccolò Paganini, the legendary violinist. In Italy, the name has maintained steady popularity through generations, while outside Italy it offers an attractive option for parents seeking a name with European flair. Niccolo has a melodic quality characteristic of Italian names, with its double consonants and clear ending vowel. The name projects strength and cultural sophistication while maintaining approachability.

Orlando, the ornate Italianate twist on the dated Roland, with a literary heritage stretching back to Shakespeare and before, has appealing book-ended o's, and is open to combination with almost any last name, a la British actor, Orlando Bloom.

Otto is cool again. Long a quintessential Old Man Name, Otto has been promoted to trending darling of adventurous baby namers.

Piero is elegant, melodic, appealing. Just picture the muted frescoes of Renaissance artist Piero della Francesca.

Yet another winning international form of Peter.

As commonly heard in Rome, Italy, as Steve is in Rome, New York. With the accent on the first syllable, Stefano has a lot of charm.

Old World Italian name that might become fashionable in a so-far-out-it's-in way, like Enzo and Rocco. Main recommendation: It's among the rare boy names that mean life.