The surname Fotopoulos is of Greek origin, and belongs to that category of surnames known as patronymic; that is, it is derived from the first name of the father of an original bearer, which was one of the most common means of identification in the period to the establishment of a formal hereditary surnames system.

In this instance, the surname, also found nowadays as Fotopoulos, finds its source in two Greek words, “Photes” and “Poulos”. The latter signifies simply “son of”, in the same way that English patronymics end in “es” and Spanish “ez”. Thus the name denotes simply “son of Photes”. Photes was a Greek god of light, and the personal name was popular throughout Greece during and after the middle Ages.

Much of this popularity was due to the renown of the Greek churchman and theologian, Photius (c.820-892). Born into a noble Byzantine family and one of the most learned men of his time, he became patriarch of the orthodox Eastern Church, and was himself in some measure responsible for the split between east and west, encouraging the growing self-consciousness of the Greek Church in his theology and in his humanist and scholarly works. He continues to be venerated as a saint by the Orthodox east.

BLAZON OF ARMS: Argent, four fusils in pale gules.
Translation: The background color, argent, or white, signifies Peace and sincerity, whilst gules (red) denotes military fortitude and magnanimity. The fusil is an emblem of rightful defense.
CREST: A mullet or.
Translation: Or (gold) is the color of generosity and elevation of mind. The mullet denotes Honor and achievement in the service of the state.
Origin: Greece