Celtic cross tattoos are increasingly preferred by tattoo enthusiasts who seek for unique and captivating tattoo patterns, with strong significance. These tattoos have been there for years and still continue to allure people with their mystic charm.
Celtic cross tattoos resemble Irish Celtic crosses that have horizontal and vertical prongs encircled. The entwined pattern running through the circle and the cross itself, makes the Celtic cross tattoo very unique and enchanting. The intricacy and beauty of the design is not the sole factor that has made Celtic cross tattoos most preferred choice of scores of tattoo enthusiasts. Diverse historical facts and meanings associated with these patterns have also added extra bling to them.
The Celtic cross has rich and interesting history. It is believed that ancient Celtic people used different symbols and patterns to express their ideas and emotions. Later the region was conquered by Romans and the Christian priests started preaching Christianity in these Celtic belts. It was during this
period that they discovered Celtic art and got so inspired by it that they used them in their manuscripts. Today Celtic cross tattoos derived from traditional Celtic art has emerged as one of the most sought after tattoo patterns.
Diverse meanings of Celtic cross tattoos
Different theories have been related to the significance of a cross tattoo design. Meanings drawn differ from person to person, depending upon their perception. Following are some of the most commonly derived meanings:
- The cross in the Celtic cross design represents the moon and the sun, the moon being the circle atop and the sun being the cross.
- The 4 corners of the cross signify the four directions- North, South, East and the West.

- The four rays, or beams, of the cross also represent four elements of nature – Earth, Wind, Fire and Water.
- The Celtic cross tattoo, with the interweaving curves and loops, signify continuous cycle of life.
- The circle around the beams where the cross intersects is also considered to be a symbol of faith in god and God’s eternal love for the people.
Every person opting for a Celtic tattoo pattern has his or her own individual reason. While some select it for spiritual or religious reasons, there are others who choose the design as a symbol of their roots or family heritage. There are still others who go for the awe-inspiring design due to its unique pattern and appealing look. Whatever may be the reasons, Celtic cross tattoos definitely personalize the wearer’s identity that the person cherishes life long.
Celtic cross tattoos are presented in different enticing ways. Some interesting, complementary images are inked with Celtic cross designs like flowers, heart, Jesus and many more. This adds uniqueness to every Celtic cross tattoo and makes them very captivating.
Celtic cross tattoos are normally inked in black color. However, these days different color shades like purple, blue or red color are also being used to emphasize some parts of the tattoo.
Types of Celtic cross tattoos
Aquarian cross: It is an inspiring Celtic cross tattoo design that features traditional Celtic knot works. The symbol of Aquarius placed in the middle part appears graceful with its intertwining knots. These Celtic cross tattoos can also be customized to suits ones taste and preference.
Skibbereen cross: It is one of the popular designs of Celtic cross tattoos that display an equal-armed cross with bold patterns. The symmetric knot works in these tattoos are very fascinating and look great on the upper arm.
These are some really awesome cross tattoos. I love cross tattoos because they represent pride and symbolize a constant spiritual development.