Carola

Carola is a feminine given name used in several European languages. It is a form of Caroline, which derives from the Latin Carolus (Charles), meaning “free man” or “manly.” As a result, Carola appears in German, Italian, Spanish, and Scandinavian naming traditions, with related spellings such as Karola and Karolina in different languages.

The name has historical and contemporary usage, with popularity that varies by country and era. In some regions it was more common in the 19th and early 20th centuries, while in others it remains in occasional use today.

Notable people with the name include Carola Rackete, an Italian-German sea captain and humanitarian activist known for her role in migrant rescue operations in the Mediterranean. Beyond public life, the name has appeared in literature and media, reflecting its broad European roots.

Related names include Caroline, Carolina, Karola, and Karolina. Carola remains a recognizable and traditional choice in several European communities, even as naming trends shift toward newer forms.