Mirela is a feminine given name used in Albanian, Croatian, and Romanian. It is the form of Mireille adapted into these languages through the intermediate Italian Mirella. Mireille was coined by the Occitan poet Frédéric Mistral for the heroine of his 1859 poem Mirèio (spelled Mirèlha in classical Occitan). Mistral likely derived the name from the Occitan verb mirar, meaning “to admire.” Thus, Mirela broadly carries connotations of admiration and beauty. Cultural Usage Mirela is especially common in Romania, where it ranks among popular feminine names. Its masculine counterpart, Mirel, is also Romanian. In Croatian and Albanian contexts, Mirela is used independently, reflecting a broader spread of the name across Southern and Eastern Europe. The Spanish forms Mireia and Mireya also share this root, showing how Mistral’s literary invention traveled and adapted. Notable Bearers Among notable people named Mirela are: Mirela (born 1990), Spanish singer and contestant on Operación Triunfo Mirela Balić (born 1999), Spanish actress Mirela Brekalo (born 1956), Croatian actress Mirela Demireva (born 1989), Bulgarian high jumper Mirela Holy (born 1971), Croatian politician environmental activist Mirela Kumbaro (born 1966), Albanian politician Mirela Maniani (born 1976), Greek javelin thrower and Olympic medalist Mirela Nichita-Pașca (born 1985), Romanian handball player Mirela Roznoveanu (born 1947), Romanian-American critic and writer These figures represent achievements in arts, sports, and public service, illustrating the name’s international character. Key Facts Meaning: derived from Occitan mirar “to admire” Origin: Occitan literary name, adapted in Southern and Eastern Europe Usage regions: Albania, Croatia, Romania, and diaspora communities Form of: Mireille (compare Italian Mirella) Masculine equivalent: Mirel (Romanian) Related forms: Mireia (Spanish), Mireya