Viking tattoos: designs, meaning and history

Popularity of Viking tattoos

Through TV series such as "Vikings," there has been a renewed interest in the culture of the Norsemen and the beautiful tattoos the protagonists have. These peoples did not keep detailed records of their customs, but through reporting of certain historians who had direct contact with Vikings, we can assume that they mostly had large and symbolic tattoos.

Would you also like to have one set? Got some inspiration needed? Read on!

Huginn on the shoulder of Odin tattoo

Traditional Viking tattoos

Many people choose traditional Viking tattoos as a way to express their love for the infamous robbers and warriors of the medieval world. These tattoos are often large and detailed and tell a story or a series of intricate patterns and symbols.

Traditional Viking tattoos therefore have several meanings, including expressions of courage, power and status.

History of Viking tattoos

The history of Viking tattoos began with the Norsemen, a people from Scandinavia who were ubiquitous in Europe from the 8th to the 11th century. dreaded were by their brutal and unexpected raids. Consequently, the Norsemen were known for their skill in sailing and warfare, as well as their tattoo traditions.

Tattooing was seen as a way to mark oneself as a member of a particular group or tribe, to instill fear and also as a way to ward off evil spirits.

So nowadays, many people choose to get Viking tattoos as a way of showing their love for the old Scandinavian culture.

What do Viking tattoos symbolize?

Viking tattoos have deep meaning and are rooted in Scandinavian tradition, culture and religious beliefs. But they are also popular because they exude strength and masculinity.

Viking men were impressive figures with large, mostly red beards and strong bodies. Because of this, they were seen as the ultimate alpha male. In our modern world, we want to be like real man still that tough, powerful image radiate by getting viking tattoos.

Note, they are not only popular with men, also with women who are looking for something powerful and tough!

Viking Skull Tattoo

Popular Viking tattoo designs

Yggdrasil: this the great tree in Norse mythology, also called the tree of life, which connects the nine worlds.
Thor's hammer: Mjölnir is the hammer of the god Thor, the most powerful and benevolent god, associated with lightning, thunder and storm.
The Valknut: The Valknut was a popular symbol in Viking culture, often seen as a sign of strength and power. It was often worn by wealthy Viking men as a sign of their status.
Huginn and Muninn: this pair of ravens are mostly depicted on Odin's shoulder. They are a kind of informers who are everywhere.
Troll Cross: A favorite of many Viking homes, this is to ward off evil spirits and negative energy.
The Runes: The Runes were the alphabet of the Vikings, and were commonly used as a tattoo to ask for help from the gods.
Vegvesir, a kind of compass, was a powerful symbol made out of runes. This tattoo was worn by tribal members who shaped the future. A reminder also that the past has invalid on the future, and that everything is connected.

In conclusion

We see here in the shop that Viking tattoos are very popular. And for good reason! They are bold, they are beautiful and they have a rich history behind them.

As one of the largest tattoo shops in Belgium with 3 branches, we therefore have a lot of experience in putting Viking tattoos. Of course, that also means: faster, and therefore cheaper and less painful.

With our team of regular and international guest artists, we can also handle everything styles from neo-traditional to realism.

Make your dream come true and go for it, fill out the form below and our tattoo experts will help you out.