Illya is a unique and distinct name of Russian origin. It is derived from the Greek name "Helen," which means "torch" or "light." In Russia, Illya has been used as an independent male name since the 17th century.
The name Illya was popularized in Russia by the famous Saint Ilia Muromets, who was a legendary hero and one of the most revered saints in Orthodox Christianity. According to folklore, Ilia Muromets was born lame but gained incredible strength after receiving a blessing from the Virgin Mary. He went on to become a great warrior, protecting his people from evil forces.
The name Illya is often associated with courage, wisdom, and devotion due to its connection to Saint Ilia Muromets. It is also believed to bring good fortune and protection to those who bear it. Despite being predominantly used as a male name in Russia, Illya can also be given to girls in some cultures.
In recent years, the name Illya has gained international recognition due to its use by Ukrainian-Canadian author Daniel Galucki in his novel "Illya Wolf," which won the Commonwealth Writers' Prize for Best First Book in 2005. This has contributed to the growing popularity of the name outside of Russia and Eastern Europe.
Overall, Illya is a strong and distinctive name with deep roots in Russian history and culture. Its association with Saint Ilia Muromets gives it additional meaning and significance, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.
The name Illya peaked in popularity during the late 1960s with a high of 78 births in 1966, followed by a steady decline over the next few decades. After the mid-1990s, it became quite rare, with fewer than 10 births per year until recent years when it has seen a slight resurgence, with around 5 to 7 births annually since 2007. Overall, there have been 360 births named Illya from 1965 to 2020.