Sebastião

Sebastião is a given name, most commonly a masculine given name of Portuguese and Spanish origin. It is derived from the Greek name Sebastianos, meaning "from Sebastia." Sebastia was an ancient city in Asia Minor, now modern-day Turkey. The name gained prominence through Saint Sebastian, a 3rd-century Roman soldier and martyr who is a popular saint in Christianity. The popularity of Saint Sebastian led to the widespread adoption of the name Sebastião in Portuguese-speaking countries, particularly Brazil and Portugal, and similarly, Sebastián in Spanish-speaking regions. It is also found in other cultures and languages with variations in spelling. Notable individuals bearing the name include Sebastião Salgado, a renowned Brazilian photojournalist, and Sebastião Lobo, a historical figure in Portuguese exploration. The name carries a sense of historical and religious significance due to its association with the saint.