The name Giuliana originated in Italy and is the feminine form of the Italian name Giuliano. It is derived from the Latin name Iulianus, which itself is the masculine form of the name Iulia. Iulia was a prominent Roman family name that can be traced back to the ancient Roman Republic and Empire.

The name Giuliana is thought to have its roots in the Latin word "iulius," meaning "downy-bearded" or "soft." This was likely a reference to the youthful appearance of one of the earliest members of the Iulia family. The name Iulia was borne by several notable women in ancient Roman history, including the mother of the Roman emperor Augustus.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Giuliana can be found in medieval Italian records from the 12th and 13th centuries. During this period, the name was often spelled as "Giuliana" or "Juliana," reflecting its Latin origins.

Throughout history, there have been several notable figures who bore the name Giuliana. One of the most famous was Giuliana Falconieri (1270-1341), an Italian religious leader and founder of the Order of Servite Nuns. Another was Giuliana Morosini (1619-1675), a Venetian noble and writer who was known for her poetry and literary salons.

In the 15th century, Giuliana Arrighi (1492-1577) was an Italian humanist and writer who was celebrated for her knowledge of classical literature. More recently, Giuliana Rancic (born 1974) is an Italian-American television personality and fashion designer who has gained fame as a host on various entertainment shows.

Another notable Giuliana was Giuliana Cavaglieri (1909-2002), an Italian architect and designer who was known for her innovative and modernist designs. She was particularly influential in the field of industrial design and helped to shape the aesthetic of Italian design in the mid-20th century.