Anguelov Surname – History, Origin, and Meaning

Introduction

Anguelov is a surname that is widely used in Eastern Europe, particularly in Bulgaria and Russia. Despite its popularity, the origins and meaning of the name have been a subject of debate. In this blog post, we will explore the history and meaning of the Anguelov surname and share some interesting facts about its distribution and prevalence.

History and Etymology

The Anguelov surname derives from the Bulgarian angal, which means “snake.” According to Bulgarian folklore, snakes are considered to be powerful spirits that protect against evil. The Anguelov surname was originally given to people who were believed to have a special connection with snakes, either through their occupation or through some supernatural ability.

As the name spread throughout Bulgaria and other parts of Eastern Europe, it took on various forms and spellings. In Russia, for example, the surname is often spelled “Angelov” or “Angelsky,” while in Bulgaria, it may be spelled “Angelova,” “Angelev,” or “Angilov.”

Frequency and Distribution

The Anguelov surname is relatively common in Bulgaria, where it is the 94th most popular surname. In Russia, the surname is less common, ranking as the 9,367th most popular. The name has also spread to other parts of Europe and the Americas, particularly in communities with Bulgarian or Russian ancestry.

Here are some interesting statistics on the prevalence of the Anguelov surname:

  • The surname is most common in the Sofia Province of Bulgaria, where it is held by over 800 people.
  • In the United States, there are over 500 people with the surname Anguelov.
  • The name is rare in the UK, with fewer than 10 people listed in the phone book.
  • The Anguelov surname is also found in Serbia, Ukraine, and other parts of Eastern Europe.

Famous People with the Anguelov Surname

There are several notable people with the Anguelov surname who have made significant contributions in various fields. Here are a few examples:

  • Kostadin Anguelov – Bulgarian footballer
  • Ivan Anguelov – Bulgarian chess player
  • Kaloyan Anguelov – Bulgarian wrestler

Conclusion

The Anguelov surname has a rich history and cultural significance in Bulgaria and other parts of Eastern Europe. Despite its popularity, the origins and meaning of the name remain somewhat mysterious. By exploring its distribution, prevalence, and famous bearers, we can uncover some interesting facts about this fascinating surname.

Sources:

  • Ancestry.com – Anguelov Surname
  • Forebears – Anguelov Surname
  • SurnameDB – Anguelov Surname
  • FamilySearch – Anguelov Surname
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