The Fascinating History of Celtic Tattoos

Celtic history goes back thousands and thousandsfeet.  The pure knot tattoo designs are normally
of years.  Early Celtic people were well knownnever ending, unless an individual adds an end to
for their skills in artwork of jewelry, metal, andsymbolize a spiral.
even weapons. They were warriors as well,The meaning behind the knots in Celtic tattoos
regarded as fierce fighters by the Romans. defies any type of literal translation and is found
Throughout Ireland, there are many examples andat a much deeper level.  The interlacing of the
evidence of Celtic artwork and Celtic crosses.knots expresses the repeated crossing of both
Over the years, modern Celtics evolved andphysical and spiritual elements.  The strands and
established symbols for themselves along thetheir never ending path is a popular design for
way. Throughout North America, Celtic peopleCeltic tattoos, representing life, faith, and love. 
often wear these symbols to let others knowFor many years, Celtics have used these designs
that they are a Celtic descent.  The symbols andfor emotional as well as heritage purposes.
knowledge have been passed down through theThose who are from a Celtic descent, Irish,
years, as there is little no written history. Scots, or Welsh, normally find a Celtic tattoo to
Tattooing however, keeps the Celtic tradition alivebe a great way to express their heritage pride. 
with the infamous Celtic cross and other popularThese tattoos help to reestablish pride, and give
Celtic designs.tribute to one’s ancestors.  The tattoos
Most Celtic tattoo designs come from Ireland,aren’t easy to do, most taking several
where the evidence of Celtic history is veryhours.  Unlike other tattoo designs, Celtic tattoos
strong indeed.  The Trinity College found in Dublin,are among the hardest designs in the world.
Ireland, contains many manuscripts that documentIf you are from a Celtic descent and have
the Celtic heritage and symbols.  The height ofdecided to get a Celtic tattoo, the first thing to
Celtic tattooing however, occurred during the erado is find an artist capable of doing the tattoo. 
when stone and metal work was really popular.The designs are very difficult and not all tattoo
Celtic knot tattoos are some of the most popularartists can do them.  It’s always best to find
and most common designs, featuring loops witha tattoo artist who has a background in Celtic
no end that symbolize a never ending cycle ofdesigns, as this will ensure the tattoo is done
dying and rebirth.  There are also Celtic animalcorrectly.  The artist who does the tattoo needs
tattoo designs as well, which are similar in designto have an eye for detail and exact line
to the knot tattoos, although the cords in theplacement – which is a skill that not all tattoo
design normally terminate in heads, tails, andartists possess.