Summary

According to Antonio Bellusci, the surname Kollokotronis originates from a nickname given to the hero’s grandfather, Jani Boçka. Described as a large and physically powerful man with notably strong hips, he was jokingly called “Bithgur” by an Albanian, a term in Arvanite referring to firm, stable buttocks. Over time, this nickname replaced the family surname Boçka and was later translated into Greek as “Kollokotronis.” The story emphasizes both the linguistic Arvanite roots of the name and the symbolic traits of strength, endurance, and constant vigilance attributed to Kollokotronis’ lineage.

This information is extracted from Antonio Bellusci’s work.

It is said that the grandfather of the hero Kollokotroni was called Jani Boçka. He was a big man and had very wide buttocks. One day, when an Albanian saw him, he said jokingly:
— What is this bithgur?
Since that time, – Kollokotroni recounts, – my grandfather retained the nickname “Bithgur” and the previous family surname, Boçka, was forgotten.

According to this account, the meaning of the surname Kollokotroni as a word is the Greek translation of the Arvanite nickname “Bithgur”, which means a strong, stable buttocks. It is said that he slept on stones, because he was always vigilant.”

Reference

“The Journey of an Arbëresh. Life, Works, Memories” Antonio Bellusci. Interlocutor and Reviewer: Ornela Radovicka. Editor: Elona Qose. Publisher: Tirana, Maluka