Bartolomé

Bartolomé is a masculine given name of Spanish origin, a form of Bartholomew derived from the Greek Bartholomaios, itself from the Aramaic Bar-Talmai meaning “son of Talmai.” The name has long been used in Christian and secular contexts and is common in Spain and Latin America. The accent on the final syllable reflects its pronunciation in Spanish.

In use, Bartolomé has been borne by a number of notable historical figures. Bartolomé de Las Casas (1484–1566) was a Dominican missionary and historian who advocated for the rights of Indigenous peoples in the Americas. The Spanish Baroque painter Bartolomé Esteban Murillo (1617–1682) is renowned for religious works and depictions of street children. Bartolomé Mitre (1821–1906) was an Argentine statesman, historian, and president who played a key role in the formation of the modern Argentine state. Bartolomé Colón, also known as Bartholomew Columbus, was the brother of Christopher Columbus and participated in early Atlantic voyages. The name is also associated with Saint Bartholomew the Apostle, one of the Twelve Apostles in Christian tradition, whose feast day is celebrated in various calendars.

Today, Bartolomé remains a common given name in Spanish-speaking countries. Diminutives include Bartolo and Tolo. The English equivalent is Bartholomew; related forms exist in Italian (Bartolomeo) and French (Barthelemy). Though primarily a given name, Bartolomé may appear as a surname in some families derived from the given name.