When you think of Egypt, perhaps the first things that come to mind are the pyramids or even the Great Sphinx. However, it extends far beyond the monuments. Ancient Egypt is said to be the framework for civilization. If there’s one thing the Egyptians mastered, aside from moving massive stones that still dumbfound us, it’s organization.

From religion to writing, government, and more, the historical significance of ancient Egyptian culture continues to be studied today. When it comes to symbolism and meanings, they are virtually quite endless.

For starters, there are tattoo ideas featuring Egyptian gods like Isis, who’s renowned for being magical and seductive, and also as the daughter of Ra. If you’re not familiar with Ra, he is the god of the sun and is associated with warm weather. Next, there is Osiris, the first pharaoh, whose queen is, of course, Isis.

Gods and goddesses aside, many Egyptian tattoo designs tend to feature royal headpieces and spiritual symbols. For instance, the Egyptians believed deeply in life after death, with the hieroglyph ankh representing eternal life and safe passage.

Even the dung beetle, called the scarab, served as a unique symbol of rebirth. As an insect of impulsiveness, it makes sense when you consider it would appear when the time was deemed right.

There’s also the ba, a decorated bird that represents relentless perseverance and personality. After flying away during the daytime to work, it seemingly always would return come nightfall. Ancient Egyptians attributed it to the protection of a youthful appearance after death.

Yet two of the most popular Egyptian tattoo designs you’ll see today often include the Eye of Horus and the Sphinx. The Eye of Horus was more than just the “all-seeing eye;” it was an Egyptian symbol of protection, good health, and royal power. It stems from Horus, the ancient Egyptian sky god, otherwise described as the falcon. Now, for the Sphinx, the meaning isn’t quite as clear. It’s been said to be a guardian to the buried king who rested in the nearby pyramid.