Traditional Viking Tattoo Designs

Tattoos featuring skulls

Skull Tattoos symbolize strength and bravery, showing willingness to face life’s challenges head-on.

Viking Compass or Vegvisir

The Viking Compass, or Vegvisir, is an excellent choice for those interested in nautical themes. It represents navigation and can be a symbol for finding direction in life.

Minimalist Viking Tattoos

Viking tattoos can still be elegant and stylish, even for those who prefer a minimalist style. They offer a simple and chic way to display Viking heritage.

Helm of Awe or Aegishjalmur

The Helm of Awe is a potent symbol in Norse mythology. It represents protection, instilling fear in opponents and safeguarding warriors against threats like disease and famine. Vikings often painted it on their forehead or arms before going into battle or even tattooed it on their bodies.

Swords

Swords are popular Viking tattoo choices, representing protection, bravery, strength, and bloodlust. Combining swords with other images like the Helm of Awe or runes creates a unique and meaningful tattoo.

Runes

Viking Tattoos featuring runes are increasingly popular among those with Scandinavian heritage or those who appreciate their symbolism. Runes can represent strength fearlessness, or be inspired by destiny, beliefs, or mythology.

Thor’s Hammer Mjolnir

Mjolnir, Thor’s iconic hammer, symbolizes protection, power, and supremacy. Another famous symbol is the Valknut, which consists of three interlocking triangles pointing upward and is believed to welcome warriors into Valhalla.

Berserker

The Berserker is a legendary figure from Norse mythology associated with strength, courage, and bloodlust. Getting a Berserker tattoo shows appreciation for the fierce warrior tradition of Viking culture.

Etching and Blackwork Tattoos

Etching Tattoos give the appearance of wood carvings or ornate furniture from the Viking Age. Blackwork tattoos, which require quality linework and shading, are also famous for an authentic Viking look.

Owl

Owls are beloved symbols from Norse mythology, representing wisdom. Combining owl imagery with other Viking symbols like the Helm of Awe or raven Tattoos creates powerful and symbolic tattoos.

Interest in Norse Mythology

Tattoos featuring Viking imagery and folklore are sought-after by people interested in Norse mythology. They provide an opportunity to show passion for this rich cultural heritage.

No Evidence of Viking Tattoos

While there is no evidence to prove that Vikings adorned themselves with tattoos, they were fascinated with esoteric symbolism and body modification, such as filing their teeth.