The Claddagh tattoo is one of importance for those of Irish heritage. You might see this symbol incorporated with other Irish symbols or standing along as a tattoo on one’s chest or back. For those of Irish decent, this symbol goes way back. To understand about the symbol, we must learn about where it came from. Most would guess Ireland and they might be right. We’re going to go through some of the history behind this historic symbol and talk about why the Claddagh tattoo is such a popular one these days.

History of Claddagh

The Claddagh tattoo started with the city of Galway. In Irish, it’s spelled Cladach which means “the shore”, but I digress. Claddagh can be found where Galway Bay meets the River Corrib. Prior to being what it is today, Claddagh was a fishing village. This was an important area on the west coast of Ireland. Until the end of the 19th century, the fish caught in Claddagh were sold across the river at the Spanish Arch.

As famous as Claddagh was for being a fishing village, they are internationally known for the Claddagh ring. The Claddagh ring was used as both a wedding and friendship ring by those of Irish decent. The symbol on the ring looks like two hands clasping a heart in which a crown sits on top.

There are some thoughts the Irish weren’t the first to use this symbol as it is possible that when the British Isles were invaded by Romans, they brought rings with this design. It could have just symbolized what the current day Claddagh ring looks like. However, the Irish were fantastic silversmiths and goldsmiths which tells me they probably didn’t follow in anybody’s footsteps when creating this symbol of love, friendship and loyalty.

Legend of the Claddagh Ring

Legend has it, a young man who happened to be a fisherman in Claddagh was at sea with other family members fishing as they did to earn money and food. Back then, the sea was dangerous. The tides might be high, and the currents might be strong but what was most feared in these times were pirates. Just so happens, the men spot a Spanish pirate ship and assumed the worst which is what happened. The men were captured by pirates and taken to the North Coast of Africa where they were sold into slavery. The men were distraught as they had left behind wives and children, but one man named Richard was especially heartbroken as he had recently met the love of his life.