20+ Swallow Tattoos

Swallow tattoos are considered to be a very old-school and traditional design, since they have been around for so many years and remain a pretty unisex choice! The tattoos having the swallow in the center of the design usually include many other elements – both from nature and the imagination – making them unique from one another. Like any other creature of nature, swallow tattoos are attributed with the qualities usually associated with birds but in a more dainty and elegant manner. However, depending on the size and the design, swallow tattoos can present a much different appeal.

Swallow Tattoo - 20+ Swallow Tattoos <3 <3

We will tell you some of the tales and beliefs that are attached to swallows as well as the symbolism behind this tattoo design. All these details should enable you to make the right decision with regard to your own tattoo design. From a historical standpoint, you will find that sailors often preferred to get the swallow tattoos in combination with many other nautical symbols. This is because these are the first birds that you get to see when you reach firm land and thereby deemed by the sailors as a good omen. The swallow is also known to fly alongside vessels in the sea and land on the ship when tired. A popular place that you will see swallow tattoos are on the chest and with sailors, a number is usually found around the wings representing the distance they have traveled. Other sailors would only get a swallow tattoo when they accomplished traveling across the Seven Seas.

Feather Swallow Tattoo - 20+ Swallow Tattoos <3 <3

Among the Greeks and Romans, the swallow was linked with Aphrodite, the beautiful goddess of love. The Greeks believed that the swallows could carry the souls of those who passed away onto the underworld. Among Christians, it was believed that swallows symbolized the rebirth of the old souls – making them a popular memorial tattoo today. To many individuals, both religious and non-religious – swallows signify a new beginning.

Old School Swallow Tattoo - 20+ Swallow Tattoos <3 <3

Among Egyptians the swallow again represented motherhood. If you look through the course of history you will find that swallows represented many things and had high symbolic value. For this reason, many individuals opt for swallow tattoos to symbolize their life status – whether it may be an achievement, a new platform of success or a form of independence that they have never before reached.

Rose and Swallow Tattoo - 20+ Swallow Tattoos <3 <3