Traditional Viking tattoos provide insight into their culture’s beliefs and worldview. Ranging from religious symbols such as gods’ signs and runic inscriptions to runic writing systems, these designs contain deep meaning.
Tattoos Celebrating the Sea – Viking Compass
Tattoos celebrating the sea can be great ways to show one’s passion for it. A Viking Compass tattoo may be needed for those with an affinity for sailing. Representing Odin and guiding across vast oceans.
Helm of Awe – Symbol of Strength and Courage
Viking mythology depicted the helm of awe (gishjalmr) as an object that protected warriors in battle, symbolizing strength and courage. It would later become tattooed onto bodies to show a warrior’s bravery and determination.
Stormy Imagery – Symbols of Power
Viking symbols often include stormy imagery to represent the power of Norse gods and portend trouble or serve as warnings, especially as Vikings raided the sea and sought fertile land to settle. Storms could often serve as signs that danger was approaching or serve as bad omens as Vikings explored new territories for settlement and fertile ground.
Female Warrior Tattoo
This Viking tattoo depicts a fierce female warrior with her axes and shields exquisitely detailed. It would make a great addition to the back or shoulder of any wearer. The design includes Nordic signature axes, the Tree of Life, Viking gods, and what appears to be dragon scales – perfect for someone wanting a varied selection of symbols in their tattoo and representing their love of the sea.
Sword – Symbol of Strength and Power
A sword is an iconic symbol of strength and power, used by Viking warriors known as Berserkers to fight without fear in battle rages. This tattoo design could make an excellent addition to honoring their courage or admiring their strength as heroes.
Huginn and Muninn – Wisdom in Tattoo Form
Huginn and Muninn represent wisdom in Viking mythology. Odin trusted these birds as allies to gather knowledge every morning before returning it to him. They make great tattoo designs for thinkers, whether on arms or legs. This design works beautifully.
Vegvisir – The Viking Compass
The Vegvisir, or Viking Compass, makes an excellent selection for a Viking tattoo. Believed to bring good fortune on journeys and protect from bad weather or hardships, the symbol has long been associated with travel and adventure – perfect for those hoping to accomplish more or take risks.
Tree of Life – Balance between Life and Death
Yggdrasil, or the World Tree in Norse mythology, is an integral component of Norse culture and represents the balance between life and death. Tattoos featuring the Yggdrasil are often combined with other Viking symbols, including the Helm of Awe, which means protection, and runes, which can have any number of interpretations.
Mjolnir – Thor’s Magical Hammer
Mjolnir, Thor’s magical hammer, is another popular Viking tattoo choice. People believe it will provide them with strength and protection against storms, lightning, and thunder – making this an excellent option for Marvel fans who want to show their admiration of Norse culture and tradition.
Ship – Symbol of Viking Pride
Traditional Viking Tattoos provide an intriguing window into Norse mythology, culture, and beliefs. Ranging from gods and warriors to runic inscriptions and knotwork patterns – this body art style offers an eye-opening glimpse of Norse culture and strength.
The Importance of Female Vikings
Though we commonly associate Viking men with raiders, female Vikings also explored intricate runic symbols and Norse mythological animals for body art. Therefore, tattooing a woman warrior or Norse goddess as part of your past can be an excellent way to remember and commemorate your history and history.
Pride in Viking Seafarers
Tattooing a ship or the Ouroboros symbol (a snake eating its tail) to demonstrate your Viking pride can be an ideal way to represent it and show how vital these seafarers were to history. Arm Tattoos are also highly recommended as they’re easily seen and coverable if necessary.
