The name Carla is a feminine given name with origins tracing back to the Germanic languages. It is derived from the Old Germanic root word "karl", which means "free man" or "man". This root word is also the source of other names such as Carl, Charles, and Carol.

In the early Middle Ages, Carla emerged as a diminutive form of the name Carol or Carola. It gained popularity across various European regions, particularly in Italy, France, and Spain. The name's simplicity and melodic sound contributed to its widespread use.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Carla can be found in the 9th-century Carolingian dynasty, where it was used as a feminine form of the name Charles. During this period, the name held a connection to royalty and nobility.

Throughout history, several notable women have carried the name Carla. One of the most famous was Carla Bruni, the former First Lady of France and an Italian-born singer-songwriter born in 1967. Another well-known figure was Carla Fracci, an Italian prima ballerina assoluta who graced the stage from 1958 until her retirement in 1989.

In literature, the name Carla appears in the works of renowned authors such as Thomas Hardy's "Tess of the d'Urbervilles" and Gabriel García Márquez's "Love in the Time of Cholera". These literary references further contributed to the name's recognition and popularity.

The 16th-century Italian painter Carla Gennari, known for her portraits and religious works, was also a notable figure who bore this name. Additionally, Carla Fracci, an Italian prima ballerina assoluta who performed with the La Scala Theatre Ballet from 1958 to 1989, was a celebrated dancer of her time.

While the name Carla has maintained a presence throughout various cultures and time periods, it has particularly resonated in Italian, French, and Spanish-speaking regions, where its melodic sound and historical associations have endured.