Aztec Tattoos are Still Popular After Many Centuries

The Aztecs lived from around the 13^th century to the 16^th century in what is today known as Mexico.  Even though they were only around for a few centuries, they left behind a lot of amazing art, much of which is the inspiration for Aztec tattoo designs.   Religion played an important role in daily Aztec life, and practically everything they did was done in order to please their gods in some way.

Aztec tribal tattoos were an essential part of their art and culture.  Many Aztec tattoos designs are still popular to this day.  While most people these days do not get them for the same reason as the ancient Aztecs, there is still a lot of symbolism behind them.  When it came down to it, the Aztecs got tattoos not only for decorative purposes, but for a variety of symbolic reasons.

They were done during rituals as a way to honor a certain god.  The designs were all different, and were used to differentiate between the various tribes.  Aztec tattoos designs were also used as a way to mark an individual’s status, as class structure was important.  A warrior, for instance, would get a tattoo designed specifically to show a warrior’s accomplishments and rank.

The Aztec culture was once considered to be very thriving and superior to other cultures in that part of the world during those centuries.  The tattoo designs can be very striking, intricate and complex.  It is obvious, when looking at surviving art, that the Aztecs placed a lot of value on their art and religion.  Many of the symbols were considered to be sacred, and were placed on particular body parts in a way that had meaning.

One of the most common elements seen in many Aztec tattoos designs is the sun.  Huitzilopochtli, their sun god, was one they held in high regard.  The sun was extremely important to the Aztec people, as they believed it was the guardian of the heavens.  An Aztec sun tattoo design is believed to symbolize heaven and the afterlife.

Quetzalcoatl was another important symbol in Aztec mythology.  He was the feathered serpent god, and was considered to be the most powerful figure of them all.  Elements associated with Quetzalcoatl have been adapted into modern tattooing.  It was believed that he had power over fertility, the weather and creativity.  It was also believed that he was the creator of the calendar, and Aztec calendar tattoos are indeed quite popular these days.

If you have been considering any type of tribal tattoo, then you should look over some Aztec tattoos designs.  There are plenty of images available online.  Whether you feel a deep connection with the Aztec people or find the art fascinating (or both), you need to look over all the amazing art.  Make sure you read about the designs and the meanings behind them so that you can have some ideas about what it means to get an Aztec tattoo!