Alessa

Alessa is primarily a feminine given name. In Italian usage it commonly functions as a shortened form of Alessandra or Alessia, but it is sometimes used as a standalone name in its own right. The name is associated with the same root as Alessandra and Alessia, which derive from Alexander and traditionally carry the meaning defender of mankind. While most frequently found in Italian-speaking communities, Alessa has appeared in various countries and languages as a given name.

In popular culture, Alessa Gillespie is a central fictional character in the Silent Hill video game series. The character’s identity and backstory are closely linked to the town’s lore and its supernatural events, making the name a notable element within the series’ mythology. Different installments present variations on the backstory, but Alessa remains a key reference point in understanding the town’s history and atmosphere.

Beyond these uses, Alessa is not widely documented as a surname or as a place name in mainstream references. The name is primarily encountered as a personal given name in modern usage, with its prominence arising largely from Italian naming practices and its presence in contemporary media.