What’s in a name? Apparently, quite a lot. A name can reflect identity, heritage, independence, politics, or even marketing. Throughout history, many cities, countries, and landmarks have changed their names – sometimes quietly, sometimes controversially – to better align with their evolving stories.
Let’s take a look at some notable places that have changed their names, and the reasons behind those transformations.
1. Istanbul (Formerly Constantinople)
Where: Turkey
Why: Political and cultural shift
Istanbul was once known as Byzantium, then Constantinople under Roman emperor Constantine. After the Ottoman conquest in 1453, it gradually came to be known as Istanbul, a name derived from a Greek phrase meaning “to the city.” It was officially renamed in 1930 as part of Turkey’s modernization under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.
2. Mumbai (Formerly Bombay)
Where: India
Why: Post-colonial identity
In 1995, Bombay was officially renamed Mumbai to reflect its roots in the local Marathi language and to honor the Hindu goddess Mumbā Devī. The change also symbolized a move away from colonial-era names imposed by the British.
3. Myanmar (Formerly Burma)
Where: Southeast Asia
Why: Linguistic and political
In 1989, the military government changed Burma to Myanmar, arguing that the new name was more inclusive of the country’s many ethnic groups. Critics, however, viewed it as a move by an unelected regime to legitimize itself. Some governments and activists still prefer “Burma” in protest.
4. Czechia (Short Form of the Czech Republic)
Where: Europe
Why: Simplicity and branding
In 2016, the Czech Republic officially adopted “Czechia” as its short-form name to make it easier to brand and promote internationally. While the full name remains official, Czechia is increasingly used in sports, business, and global discourse.
5. Eswatini (Formerly Swaziland)
Where: Southern Africa
Why: Post-colonial identity and linguistic accuracy
In 2018, King Mswati III announced that Swaziland would revert to its pre-colonial name, Eswatini, which means “land of the Swazis” in the local language. The name change coincided with the country’s 50th independence anniversary and was seen as a reclamation of national identity.
6. Ho Chi Minh City (Formerly Saigon)
Where: Vietnam
Why: Political transformation
After the fall of South Vietnam in 1975, Saigon was renamed Ho Chi Minh City to honor the communist leader who unified the country. Despite the official change, many locals and expatriates still use “Saigon,” especially in informal contexts.
7. Derry / Londonderry
Where: Northern Ireland
Why: Political and sectarian conflict
This city has two names depending on who you ask. Nationalists and Catholics typically say “Derry,” while Unionists and Protestants use “Londonderry.” The dispute highlights ongoing divisions from the region’s turbulent political history. Officially, it remains Londonderry, but both names are used.
8. St. Petersburg (Formerly Petrograd / Leningrad)
Where: Russia
Why: Political shifts
This Russian city has changed names multiple times: from St. Petersburg to Petrograd in 1914 (to sound less German during WWI), to Leningrad in 1924 after Lenin’s death, and back to St. Petersburg in 1991 following the fall of the Soviet Union.
9. Rhodesia → Zimbabwe
Where: Southern Africa
Why: Independence and decolonization
In 1980, after years of civil war and colonial rule, Rhodesia gained independence and became Zimbabwe, named after the ancient Kingdom of Great Zimbabwe. The name change marked a new chapter of sovereignty and self-determination.
10. New York (Formerly New Amsterdam)
Where: USA
Why: Colonial conquest
Originally settled by the Dutch as New Amsterdam in the 17th century, the city was taken by the British in 1664 and renamed New York in honor of the Duke of York. The change reflected a shift in colonial power and influence.
Why Name Changes Matter
Changing a name isn’t just about replacing signs on a map. It’s about reclaiming history, reshaping identity, and reflecting current values. Whether to shed colonial legacies, honor cultural roots, or project a new image to the world, place name changes are profound expressions of transformation.
They tell us that while geography may be constant, our relationship to it – and how we name it – is always evolving.
What do you think of these name changes? Do you know of a place that has changed its name recently or should? Let us know in the comments!