Speculation began about possible names as soon as the Marshall of the Realm, the chief officer of the Swedish court, published a statement saying he was "happy to announce that HRH Crown Princess Victoria gave birth to a daughter" . The new mum, pictured leaving hospital in a snap posted on Facebook, has not yet revealed her decision. But Sweden has a proud history of reigning queens and the new baby would be the fifth after Victoria.
So a previous female ruler could provide a name.The most famous was the headstrong Christina Alexandra who ruled for 21 years from 1632. Intellectual and unconventional, she provided the inspiration for Hollywood movie Queen Christina starring Greta Garbo.Although other possibilities are Margaret, on the throne in the 15th century, and Ulrika Eleonora who reigned in the 18th century. Also likely are Alice or Desiree – her mother's full name is Victoria Ingrid Alice Desiree. Alice is the name of the crown princess' maternal grandmother.
At odds of 5 to 1 is Alicia, which is similar and was the most popular name in the country last year.If new parents Victoria and Daniel decide on a family name, the little girl could be a Silvia, after the queen, or an Anna – the name of his mother.The couple could go back to basics with a traditional Swedish name such as Sophia, Astrid or Magdalena. And the world will soon know her decision when King Carl Gustaf announces the baby's name and title at a meeting of the Cabinet Council later in the week.More on Victoria's baby