The Aztecs operated under a system of structure, ritual, and superstition that included tattoo as a part of everyday life. Aztec tattoo was important to their amazing worship of the sun and displays of art and culture. 

Aztec imagery developed a variety of intricate designs, patterns and motifs that focused on repetition and development of shape, pattern, and geometric structures, and this style has flowed through to contemporary tattoo culture.  

Aztec design is almost always etched in richly detailed black and gray and looks to deliver the stone aspects of their ancient cities and totems, as well as celebrating warriors, women, and images of bravery strength, and spirit, such as Aztec Eagle Tattoo. 

Read on for an insight into Aztec civilization and the 77 best tattoo designs, featuring a range of stunning tattoos in a range of placements and degrees of detail. 

1. Aztec Animal Totem Feature Tattoos

This is awesome. Love the overall falcon image being broken into sections then displayed as a variety of different popular Aztec patterns. The design makes this a truly unique inside forearm tattoo well backed by skilful shading and line work.

Key animal symbols in Aztec culture included those closest to the people such as Jaguars, bears, monkeys, frogs and eagles. The animals acted as totems for Aztec peoples’ personalities and behavior. These motifs are frequently recurring for both tattoo culture and wider Central American Art. 

The Aztec Eagle, Jaguar, and Bear for example, are symbols of fierce bravery and strength – hugely important characteristics to a warrior tradition – while monkeys and frogs were popular for their more joyous personalities.