The name Estefania has its origins in the Greek language, stemming from the word "stephanos," which means "crown" or "wreath." It is a feminine form of the name Stephen, which was derived from the Greek name Stephanos. This name has been in use since ancient times, with records dating back to the early Christian era.

In the 1st century AD, the name Estefania gained popularity among early Christian communities, as it was associated with the martyrdom of Saint Stephen, one of the first deacons of the Christian Church. The name was widely adopted by Christian families, particularly in regions with strong Greek and Latin cultural influences.

During the Middle Ages, the name Estefania spread throughout Europe, with variations in spelling and pronunciation emerging in different regions. In Spain, the name was commonly spelled as "Estefania," while in Italy, it was known as "Stefania." These variations reflected the linguistic and cultural diversity of the regions where the name was used.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Estefania dates back to the 12th century, when a Spanish noblewoman named Estefania de Armengol was mentioned in historical records. She was the wife of Armengol VI, Count of Urgell, and played a significant role in the political affairs of the region during that time.

Throughout history, several notable figures have borne the name Estefania, including:

1. Estefania de Requésens (1486-1537), a Spanish noblewoman who served as the Lady of Honor to Queen Germana de Foix.
2. Estefania de Caraman (1532-1596), a French noblewoman and writer known for her poetry and religious works.
3. Estefania de la Encarnación (1597-1665), a Spanish nun and mystic who founded the Order of Discalced Carmelites.
4. Estefania Persico (1781-1848), an Italian painter and sculptor who gained recognition for her religious artwork.
5. Estefania Álvarez de Toro (1876-1924), a Cuban activist and educator who fought for women's rights and education reform.

These individuals, spanning different centuries and cultures, have contributed to the rich history and legacy of the name Estefania. From noblewomen and religious figures to artists and activists, the name has been borne by remarkable individuals who have left their mark on various aspects of society.