There are an endless variety of Celtic Knots, some of which we’ll explore in more detail later. It also symbolises harmony in the natural world and is believed to protect people from evil influences. Today, people use the Celtic Cross as a representation of knowledge, compassion, strength, and infinite love. It blends the traditional Christian symbol with the pagan symbol of the sun. The four stages of the day (morning, midday, evening, and midnight)Īs mentioned earlier, the Celtic Cross has also become a symbol of Christianity.The four seasons (summer, autumn, winter, and spring).The four elements (Earth, water, wind, and fire).The four cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west). The most common Celtic cross design features an ornate Latin-style cross with a ring, circle, or nimbus around the intersection.īelieved to be a symbolic compass of sorts, nobody today is sure of its exact meaning. It’s actually associated with sun worship and is also known as a “sun cross.” One of the most recognisable symbols on this list, the Celtic Cross was popular centuries before Christianity began – as we noted earlier. With this overview of Celtic culture in mind, let’s take a look at the 25 most common Celtic symbols and meanings. Top 25 Celtic Symbols and Meaningsįar from just being a pretty artistic expression, Celtic symbols and patterns had very specific meanings.įrom what I gather, the Celts believed each pattern held a power that could help with everything from winning battles and attracting wealth to protecting their health and finding true love. So, while some symbols are distinctly Celtic or Irish, others (like the cross) are in fact a blend of the two cultures.Ĭheck out the celtic knot meaning and other celtic symbols in the next section. In an attempt to convert the pagan Celts and make this “new religion” more palatable, these early Christians blended their religious beliefs with existing pagan traditions - such as the use of the cross. Interestingly, variations of the Celtic cross design existed for at least 500 years before Christianity.Īpparently, when Christianity first reached the Emerald Isle in the 4th century, Celtic culture was already well established. Popular Irish symbols like the harp and the shamrock didn’t come along until centuries later, as Irish people developed their own distinct culture. This included those magic Celtic symbols, like spirals, triangles, knots, and animals. The Celts first settled in Ireland around 500 BC, bringing their culture and religious beliefs with them. Irish Symbols vs Pagan Celtic Symbolsīefore we dive into the most popular Celtic symbols and meanings, let’s clear one thing up:Īre Irish symbols and Celtic symbols the same thing? Shamrock is one of the example of Popular irish symbols. In fact, the Welsh, Breton, Corning, and Gaelic languages can all trace their roots back to the Celts. Today, Celtic influence is felt strongest in places like Ireland, Wales, and Scotland. The Romans called the Celts “Galli,” which means “barbarians.”īut ask anyone who’s seen their intricate artwork, and they’re sure to agree that these talented craftsmen were anything but! Then, as the Roman empire expanded, they were forced into the British islands, and places like Spain and France. Rather, they were a collection of different tribes that shared a common language as well as cultural and religious beliefs.Īs the Greek empire flourished, the Celts were gradually pushed out of western Europe. Interestingly, though, the Celts never formed a single “empire” or “nation.” Historians estimate that Celtic culture originated in central Europe as early as 1200 BC. 20 Amazing Destinations with Clear Water.Searching for Celtic signs ? You might also like these: In the first section, I’ll run the origin of “celtic”and how to differentiate between Irish and Pagan celtic symbols…
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