The name Gaspar is derived from the Persian word "Gazbar", which means "treasure bearer" or "bringer of treasure". It is a masculine name that has its origins in ancient Persia, now modern-day Iran. The name gained widespread recognition and popularity during the Middle Ages, particularly in Europe.

Gaspar is one of the traditional names given to the three wise men or biblical magi who visited the newborn Jesus in Bethlehem, according to the Gospel of Matthew. In the Western Christian tradition, the three wise men are often referred to as Caspar (or Gaspar), Melchior, and Balthasar. The name Gaspar is associated with the gift of frankincense, which was one of the three gifts presented to the Christ child.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Gaspar can be found in the 6th-century Greek manuscript known as the "Excerpta Latina Barbari". This text mentions a Persian king named Gaspar, who was thought to be one of the wise men from the East. Throughout the Middle Ages, the name Gaspar was commonly used in various European countries, particularly in Spain, Portugal, and Italy.

Some notable historical figures who bore the name Gaspar include Gaspar de Portolà (1723-1786), a Spanish explorer and the first governor of California; Gaspar Correia (c. 1492-1561), a Portuguese chronicler and historian; and Gaspar Castano (1551-1624), a Spanish painter and sculptor known for his religious works.

Another prominent figure was Gaspar de Guzmán, Count-Duke of Olivares (1587-1645), a Spanish nobleman and chief minister of King Philip IV of Spain during the Thirty Years' War. He played a significant role in shaping the policies of the Spanish Empire during that period.

In the realm of literature, Gaspar is the name of a character in William Shakespeare's play "The Tempest". The character, Gaspar, is one of the sailors who is part of the shipwrecked crew.

Throughout history, the name Gaspar has been used across various cultures and regions, often associated with the biblical story of the three wise men and their journey to Bethlehem.