Symbols of Ireland and Irish Symbols

What are some Irish symbols and Symbols of Ireland?

 Irish Symbols, Irish Symbols Meanings and Symbols of Ireland continue to fascinate everyone as signs holding incredible, and meaningful spiritual power.

Irish Symbols and Symbols of Ireland:

  • The Irish Harp
  • Tricolor Flag
  • Shamrock
  • Claddagh Ring
  • Celtic Cross
  • Celtic Knots
  • Trinity Knot
  • Triskelion
  • Tree of Life
  • St. Brigids Cross

What is the Official Symbol of Ireland?

The symbol of Ireland is the Irish Harp. The Irish Harp, although not as renowned as the shamrock is the official emblem of Ireland. The Irish harp status as the official insignia of Ireland dates centuries to Trinity college in 1782.  The Irish Harp's history tells much about the history of the Emerald Isle. Women of Irish decent will often wear and Irish Harp Brooch or Irish Harp Pendant to events to show their heritage and patriotiism of Ireland.  

What is the history of the Irish Flag?

Commonly referred to Irish Symbol or Symbol of Ireland is the Irish tricolour (trídhathach na hÉireann) this tricolor flag is the national flag and ensign of the Republic of Ireland. This flag is nicknamed the Irish Tricolour for its equal sections of green, white, and orange. The Tricolor Flag was first flown publically by Thomas Francis Meagher in Waterford on March 7, 1848. Officially it was adopted by the Irish Republic during the War of Independence with England in 1919. Learn more>

What is the meaning of the Shamrock?

The shamrock is the traditional symbol or Ireland. The shamrock forms a triad and the Celts believed three was a mystical number. Saint Patrick used the shamrock to explain the holy Trinity to the Celts. If good things come in threes then a silver 3-leafed shamrock pendant in beautiful emerald green is definitely a good thing. Learn more>

What is a Claddagh Ring and what does it mean?

Probably the best known Irish Symbol is a Claddagh Ring is a symbol of love, loyalty and frienndship. The Claddagh Ring is a traditional Irish ring with two hands signify friendship, the heart represents love and the crown symbolizes loyalty.

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How should I wear a Claddagh Ring?

If the Claddagh Ring is worn on the right hand with the crown facing inwards you are declaring that your heart has not yet been won. If the Claddagh ring is worn on the right hand with the crown facing outwards reveals your love is being considered. If worn on the left hand with the crown facing outwards you are declaring that your heart is forever taken.

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What is the meaning behind the Celtic Cross?

Another well known Irish Symbol loved by the faithful is the Celtic Cross. Legend says St. Patrick while preaching Christianity drew a cross through a Celtic circle symbolic of the moon Goddess. Hence the Celtic Cross or Celtic Sun Cross was born. Today the circle of the Celtic cross is viewed as a of God's endless love.

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What is a Trinity Knot?

Much like the shamrock  a popular Irish Symbol is the Triquetra knot or the Trinity knot was used by Christians to represent the Holy Trinity. In modern times the Trinity knot is now interpreted as the Irish love knot. The trinity knot's interlaced and unbroken lines symbolize spiritual growth, eternal life and undying love. So profess your love and give her the Irish love knot!

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What is the significance of the Celtic knot?

A Celtic knot is a stylized representation of an endless knot used for decoration by the Celts. There are eight basic types of Celtic knots. They have no religious or philosophical meaning other than representing the endless intricacy of humanity and nature.

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What does the Triskelion symbol mean?

The Celtic Triskelion or "Triskeles" meaning "three legs" has three lines radiating from a center. The Triskelion or Triple Spiral is a complex ancient Celtic symbol. Often referred to by many as a Triskelion, its earliest creation dates back to the Neolithic era, as it can be seen at the entrance of Newgrange, Ireland. Learn more>

Spirals are the earliest decorative motif of the Celts and the first to disappear. Death and rebirth is the symbolism in the ever changing directional flow of the spiral. Learn more>

What is the meaning behind the tree of life?

The sacred tree or Tree of Life was a central part of early Celtic spirituality. The sacred Tree of Life represented the fruitfulness of the earth, evoking spiritual growth and rebirth. Trees provided the Celts with a source for basic sustenance. Learn more>

Without trees, life for the Celts would have been difficult. The Celts believed the Tree of Life was rooted in the heart of the earth and that it drank the sacred waters of life. The Tree of Life stretched its branches into the heavens bridging earthly and celestial powers. Every Celtic tribe had its own sacred tree as a symbol of sovereignty, sacred wisdom and spiritual growth. Learn more>

What is a St Bridget's Cross?

The beautiful St. Brigid cross is a wonderful tribute to Ireland's beloved saint. Saint Brigid of Kildare or Brigid of Ireland is one of Ireland's patron saints, along with Saint Patrick. Saint Brigid was born Brigit, and shares a name with a Celtic goddess from whom many legends and folk customs are associated. Learn more>