Celtic Cross Meaning: One of the Most Famous Symbols of Irish Culture !

If you are looking to understand Celtic Cross meanings, you have come to the right place! For a recognized Irish symbol, the Celtic cross is probably near the top of the list.

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Irish Celitc Cross. Stone statue against water background.

The ornate details and circle around the intersection of the cross are what sets it apart and makes it both recognizable and beautiful.

If you would like to learn more about this Irish symbol and many others, please pay a visit to our main section on Irish symbols here!

Meanwhile, let's have a closer look at the Celtic Cross!

Celtic Cross Meaning: Where Did it Come From?

This Irish symbol is believed to have existed since at least the Dark Ages. Originally, Celtic crosses were carved on flat slabs of stone.

Later they became upright rather than laying flat on the ground.

These crosses also had traditional Celtic symbols on them like the knot work, spirals, and foliage.

Today, you'll find them in Celtic jewelry, tableware, clothing, and various other art forms. Irish cross pendants and tattoos are two of the more common expressions of this classic Irish and Celtic symbol.

We love exploring the various types of Celtic cross meanings. That helps us to start conversations and tell stories about our Irish heritage, and gives us opportunities to express our Irish side!

What is the Meaning of the Irish Cross (Celtic Cross)?

Some believe these crosses represent north, south, east, and west. While others think earth, water, wind, and fire.

One legend suggests Saint Patrick created the original Cross when he took a regular Latin cross and drew a circle over it.

It is assumed he did this to include the pagan symbol of the moon goddess the legend states.

Still others believe the circle that appears on the Cross stands for the never-ending love God has for man. According to the Irish Catholics, the Cross also stands for Christ’s crucifixion and his resurrection.

How is the Cross used?

Irish monks erected a large number of the free-standing versions not only in Ireland but Great Britain as well. This practice started around the 7th century. Many of the crosses at that time had inscriptions in the runic alphabet.

Irish Cross - Clonmacnoise Monestary Bay Side

Many examples still stand today. At County Meath, there is the "Cross of Kells" for one example of the Celtic Cross (Irish Cross). Another example is in Clonmacnoise, Ireland with the "Cross of the Scriptures".

These crosses were made until around the 15th century when they almost ceased to exist almost, down to just a few examples.

Then in the 19th century, there was a renewed interest in the Celtic culture, which brought back the crosses. The new versions were used as upscale markers in cemeteries.

In the early days of this cross, it was only used for a monument so this was a new use for it. The cross during this time became a Celtic symbol with historic meaning.

Between 1899 - 1940, designers such as Euphemia and Alexander Ritchie were responsible for the Celtic Cross being worn as jewelry.

This continues even now. In fact, now you can find many souvenir items with the Cross on them, worn as religious symbols or good luck charms.

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To help deepen your love of Irish symbolism, we have over the years created many downloadable, share-able Irish games, puzzles, recipes, songbooks, quizzes, and much, much more.

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