About Celtic Crosses

The Celtic cross first appeared as a pagan symbol that originated centuries before Christianity. The Celts were a nomadic people with roots in many different present-day European countries. As the Roman Empire stretched north and west, the Celts were pushed back into Wales, Scotland and Ireland where they preserved their unique culture. By the mid-19th century, the Celtic cross became popular in cemetery architecture, marking the final resting place of a person of Irish descent.

Original Design

The first Celtic crosses were undecorated. The circle was originally much larger, completely encircling the arms of the cross. As Christianity spread through Ireland the circle began to shrink, possibly to symbolize the shift from pagan religion to a new belief system.

Original Purpose

Celtic crosses were usually erected to mark parish boundary lines or as monuments on church or monastery grounds. These crosses were extremely large sculptures. A much smaller Celtic cross was not generally used to mark a grave until the 1850s.

Symbolism

There are many different theories regarding the symbolism of the Celtic cross. Most explanations are deeply connected to the natural world. Some believe the arms of the Celtic cross symbolize male reproductive power, while the circle stands for female reproductive power. Others believe the circle represents the moon, and the addition of the cross transformed it into the symbol for the sun. The four arms of the cross can represent the four elements of earth, air, water and fire; the four directions of the compass; or the mind, body, soul and heart of humanity.

Decoration

Most Celtic crosses are decorated with intricate tracery, knots and key patterns. Artwork often includes mythical creatures, native plant life and animals. The true meaning of many of these symbols has not been documented in the written historical record, creating an air of mystery and folklore surrounding the Celtic cross.

Religion

The cross itself predates Christianity and only became a religious symbol after the crucifixion of Christ. The Celtic cross was adopted as a religious symbol by the Celts that converted to Christianity. A new set of symbols accompanied this change. The circle came to stand for God's eternal love, while the cross became the symbol of Christ's death. Some Irish Catholics believe St. Patrick created the first Celtic cross by drawing a cross through a circle that originally symbolized a pagan goddess.

Celtic Crosses Today

Today the Celtic cross is a popular design for tattoos, jewelry and gravestones. For many it has become a symbol of Irish heritage rather than a purely religious symbol.