Getting a Nordic tattoo means embracing heritage and identity, so you must understand its history before selecting its symbols as part of your tattoo design.
Vegvisir
One of the most iconic symbols is Vegvisir, an iconic Viking compass symbolizing direction and guidance. Perfect for people who love exploring!
Odin
As the highest of all gods, Odin symbolizes wisdom, altruism, and esoteric knowledge. Additionally, he can shapeshift with different animal familiars – an Odin tattoo can represent strength, protection, and defense.
Yggdrasil
Norse mythology depicts the Yggdrasil tree as an emblem of interconnectedness, connecting all nine realms. A tattooed representation of this legendary symbol could guide life’s journey.
Huginn and Muninn
Huginn and Muninn are Odin’s two ravens, symbolizing thought and memory. Tattooing these two birds could illustrate your search for knowledge as you strive toward eternal truth.
Vindelev bracteates
Vindelev bracteates depict a human head, galloping horse, and gold pendant covered with runes – ancient Scandinavian symbols used for almost 1000 years before the Latin alphabet took over their use as tattoo symbols. Each letter in runes can represent something personal; each has its meaning.
Thor
Thor Tattoos represent male virility and strength. They symbolize our capacity as men to protect what matters to us most in life, just as this powerful god was known for his generosity and kindness.
Mjolnir
Tattoos depicting Mjolnir, Thor’s hammer, are an excellent way to symbolize power, strength, and courage – three qualities that should resonate strongly for those who believe in themselves and are unafraid to stand up for what matters to them.
Valknut
The Valknut is a symbol of power in Norse mythology. Consisting of three interlocking triangles with nine total vertices, its meaning remains unclear but could represent life and death cycles, Odin’s power, or simply connecting nine realms in Norse cosmology.
Heimdall
Tattoos are an elegant way of marking the body with symbols that carry symbolic significance, be they personal or spiritual. Tattoos add depth and mysticism to an individual’s look; one must consider their historical and cultural context before getting one.
Yggdrasil
Another symbol that’s become increasingly popular is the Yggdrasil, an ancient Norse tree believed to connect all nine realms. This tree can symbolize interconnectivity, growth, and renewal.
Popular Symbols
Popular symbols include Mjolnir, Thor’s hammer; Odin’s ravens Huginn and Muninn; the sea serpent Jormungandr, representing the life-after-death cycle; and the Sleipnir, symbolizing speed and strength. These powerful symbols add charisma and depth of meaning for any individual who encounters them.
Frigg
Frigg, Odin’s wife and fertility goddess, is often depicted with a spear or torch and holding an infant, often associated with Friday in her honor.
Vegvisir
Vegvisir, also known as the Way-Finder, is the Viking Compass made of eight rune staves, which symbolize protection and guidance.
Vikings were more than the fearsome plunderers of old, and their symbols can make for an eye-catching tattoo design. No matter your heritage or beliefs, a Nordic tattoo can show your passion for history while showing your style.
