Celtic Cross Tattoos

Celtic Cross Tattoos are one of the most popular Celtic Tattoos you can get. The Celtic cross looks like a classic Christian cross but with a characteristic circle around the intersection. The cross is often adorned with distinctive knot work which allows Celtic cross tattoos to be a flexible design that is both decorative and meaningful to the wearer. The Celtic cross is also called the High cross, Irish cross, and Ionic cross. Most people associate the Celtic cross and Celtic cross tattoos with faith and eternity.

This ancient and sacred symbol has a long and mysterious history. The Celtic cross is believed to be a pre-Christian version of the Solar cross and known examples date back to 5000 years BCE. The Celtic cross is also linked with the Taranis, the God of Thunder. The cross became symbolic of the Celtic Christian Church after the Celtics converted to Christianity. There are stone structures of the Celtic cross found in Ireland, from 800 A.D., on the grounds of monasteries. They are also found in other Celtic lands, such as, Wales, England, and Scotland where a cross is likely to reside in churchyards and market squares.

Many people are puzzled by the ring on the cross and what it symbolizes. There are several beliefs to why the Celtic cross has a circle around the arms. Some believe that the circle is a symbol of eternity and combined with the cross represents the infinity of God's love. Other interpretations of the circle represent the everlasting love of god and the everlasting life in Heaven. It is also believed that the ring symbolizes a crown of thorns or a halo. For pagans the ring could be a symbol for the sun or the moon. It is also thought that the Celtic cross is an astrological navigation instrument.

Celtic cross tattoos are popular among people with Celtic connections (Irish, Scottish, or Welsh) in their family history. One does not have to have Celtic connections to wear Celtic cross tattoos as this design will do for anybody that associates a cross with religious or spiritual significance.

Combined with the beautiful lines of loops, spirals, and knotworks, the Celtic cross is a beautiful representation of faith. The Celts believed that knotworks and the never ending loops represent eternity and continuous cycle of life.

A common spot for Celtic cross tattoos is on the upper arm, shoulder, or back.
Check out a collection of Celtic Cross Tattoos and other great Free Tattoo Designs