Origin and Meaning of Gaudalupe

River of love / Valley of the wolf

Origin: Spanish - The name comes from the Arabic word 'wadi', meaning 'river', combined with the Latin 'lupus', meaning 'wolf'. The name is also associated with the Virgin of Guadalupe, who is an important figure in Mexican culture.

• Guadalupe is widely recognized as a major pilgrimage site in Mexico, where it is believed the Virgin Mary appeared to a peasant named Juan Diego in 1531.
• The name is used for both males and females, making it a popular unisex name, especially in Spanish-speaking countries.
• Notable bearers include the Mexican artist Diego Rivera and the poet Octavio Paz, both of whom have invoked the name in their works.
• The name experienced a surge in popularity in Mexico and the United States, often ranking among the top names for girls in Hispanic communities.
• Variations of the name can be found in other languages and cultures, such as 'Guadalupe' in Spanish, 'Gualdalupe' in Italian, and 'Guadeloupe' in French, named after the Caribbean island.