If you’re thinking about getting a meaningful tattoo, why not get a little bit of inspiration from these ten popular Celtic tattoo designs?
Irish culture has roots all over the world. This has meant that the interest in Celtic symbols and designs has been alive and growing for many years.
As such, as the interest in Celtic mythology, culture, and history continues to grow, Irish Celtic tattoo designs continue to become more and more popular.
If you’re thinking of getting an Irish Celtic tattoo but you’re not sure which one is right for you, take a look at the ten most popular Irish Celtic tattoos below for some inspiration.
- Triskele
The Triskele is by far one of the most popular and well-known Irish Celtic symbols, and it’s a great choice if you’re thinking of getting a tattoo that is linked to Celtic culture.
This ancient symbol, made up of three spiralling legs meeting in the centre, is said to represent sacred trios. For example, life, death, and rebirth. This is a beautiful symbol with an even more stunning representation behind it.
- Triquetra
The Triquetra is definitely a popular Irish Celtic tattoo, one that is often found on the bicep or the back of the leg.
This symbol is also known as the trinity knot and is popular in a lot of popular culture tv shows, for example, Charmed.
- Celtic cross
Another great option for a Celtic tattoo design is the Celtic Cross. Crosses are a common theme for tattoos because of religious reasons, but the Celtic Cross brings something a little different.
The cross distinguishes itself from a regular cross thanks to the circle in the middle and the intricate patterns that weave around the cross itself. This symbol represents a spiritual compass of unity and inclusion.
- Celtic Tree of Life
The Celtic Tree of Life is most certainly one of the most popular Irish Celtic tattoo designs. This symbol features on a lot of tapestries and homeware as it is a beautiful symbol of Irish culture.
Depicting a tree, its leaves, and its intricate roots in a Celtic pattern, the Tree of Life is a beautiful tattoo design small or large and be made unique in many interesting ways.
- The Dara Knot
The Dara Knot symbolises strength, both outer and inner. As such, this is one of the best Celtic symbols of strength that you can portray on your skin.
Furthermore, this symbol is also said to depict wisdom, community, immortality, and spirituality.
- The harp
The harp is one of the national symbols of Ireland, said to represent the sovereignty of Ireland in early Irish mythology.
This is an incredible symbol for music lovers and culture lovers alike. Plus, if you’re a fan of Guinness, it’s like getting a little piece of the ‘black stuff’ tattooed on yourself forever!
- The Ailm
The Ailm is a symbol of resilience and endurance, another great representation of strength. The symbol derives from the letter ‘A’ in the Celtic Ogham alphabet.
While this is one of the most popular Irish Celtic tattoo designs, it is perhaps a lesser-known symbol if you are searching for something a little less done before.
- St. Brigid’s Cross
Ireland’s female Patron Saint, St. Brigid of Kildare, is an important person and symbol that actually pre-dates Christianity in Ireland.
The cross of St. Brigid represents hope, life-giving, and the return of spring. This is a great symbol for a tattoo that comes from a strong woman leading into fresh, new life.
- Claddagh
The Claddagh is a symbol that is often depicted on jewellery, like rings, earrings, and necklaces. This is a powerful Celtic symbol for love that is commonly represented on tattoos as well.
When dissecting the symbol bit by bit, the heart, of course, means love, while the hands represent friendship, a different kind of love. If you are looking for a Celtic tattoo design that represents all things love, the Claddagh is a great option.
- The Shamrock
Finally, the last popular Irish Celtic tattoo design is the shamrock. A symbol that is often associated with Ireland and Irishness, it is a notion that represents St. Patrick, good fortune and good luck.
If you are searching for a symbol that is synonymous with Ireland and Irish culture, you can’t find any better than the shamrock.
