Ancient Greece allowed individuals to have permanent tattoos covered on their skin; however, this practice wasn’t necessarily seen as beneficial. The Ancient Greeks believed any sign of degeneration or shameful appearance was associated with tattoos, particularly on women.
Artemis
Artemis represented nature, hunting, women’s health, animal care, and childbirth – qualities which Artemis represented admirably. She had played many roles throughout her life but remained a virgin in all of them. Unaffected by love or sensual longings, she had an open and direct way of thinking that made life easy. Artemis’ bow and arrow symbolize sport, well-being, and the outdoors – making her emblematically significant to those who cherish nature. An Artemis tattoo can hold special meaning for anyone who appreciates its wonders.
Hermes
Hermes, the Olympian messenger God, is revered by thieves, travelers, athletes, and border crossing agents as their patron. Furthermore, he guides them into the underworld.
Hephaestus
Hephaestus was known as the Olympian gods’ blacksmith – providing great armor and ingenious devices made out of bronze to them. As with Athena, Artemis was an enthusiastic patron of the arts. Although not precisely agreeable to everyone, his skill as an artisan won him the respect of Immortals. Tattoos dedicated to Hephaestus can make an excellent symbol for those in the crafts field or those who have overcome hardship to produce something truly outstanding. Hephaestus has even been featured as such a character in numerous movies!
Ares
Ares, one of the twelve Olympian gods, is widely revered as the Greek God of War and symbolizes all aspects of warfare – its brutality, violence, and physical aspects. He personifies all these aspects. Ares is often depicted as a fierce Spartan warrior, often wearing a helmet and equipped with a shield. He drives a four-horse chariot while being joined by Deimos and Phobos, his sons. Ares had a sister named Eris (Strife), known as the goddess of war and was one of the first gods killed during the Trojan War.
Hades
Hades is the Greek God of death and the underworld, commonly associated with mortality as the grim reaper who punishes wrongdoers. Yet this deity also serves justice by punishing any misdeeds committed against his followers. Hades is an influential character from Greek mythology, and many people get tattoos of him to honor or pay their respects to his strength. A Hade’s tattoo also represents death and new beginnings; for some, this could also mean ending an era or beginning of something new in their lives.
Aphrodite
Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty, is one of the most beloved Greek deities for tattoos. Her irresistibly sensual beauty, powerful femininity, and undying passion all symbolize romance and passion – perfect qualities to illustrate romantic relationships! Over time, many painters and sculptors attempted to capture Aphrodite’s incomparable beauty through art; some such attempts are still widely admired, including Sandro Botticelli’s Birth of Venus. Aphrodite used her beauty and desirable body to easily seduce men, harnessing lust and desire as the source of her power.
