Mystery of Mexican Aztec Tattoos

Posted on October 26, 2009
Filed Under Tattoo History

Mexican Aztec tattoos have the most peculiar designs around and are easily recognizable by their geometric patterns. They go back to the times of Mayan, Inca and Aztec civilizations who laid the foundations for present day Mexican tattoos.

The Aztecs were a tribe that lived in the area of what is now the city of Mexico between the 14th and 15th centuries. They were highly religious people and dedicated great deal of their daily time to please the severe gods. But at the same time Aztecs belong to the most advanced ancient civilizations, science and art forms were highly developed as well as the art of tattooing.

The practice of religion only encouraged the development of tattoo art. At those time tattoos were not a mere means of self expression, but as a part of a solemn rite. Tattoos were often done on the wrist, chest or stomach areas and were worn by both grown-ups and children. For instance, young boys and girls usually showed their devolution to some god, by their first tattoo.

Of course, not all tattoos were of religious background. Another function of Aztec tattooing was to differentiate – between tribes, between social classes. They also showed a person’s occupation and rank in society, e.g. warrior tattoos.

Mystery of Mexican Aztec Tattoos

Mexican Aztec tattoos are the collection of deep symbols and the display of versatility of their lives. Many of has lead to modern tribal tattoo designs, with the themes of the Sun, the freedom-loving Eagle, the Princess and the Warriors and the Aztec Calendar being the most popular and well-known.

The Sun tattoo was one of the most important ones for it stood for the Aztec main god and symbolized the heavens and the life after death, in which they believed.

Among other designs of Mexican Aztec tattoos are the symbols of the feathered serpent god and the god of weather and fertility as well as the god of warriors who was depicted as an eagle (courage is commonly ascribed to this bird). Less in quantity but still popular nowadays are sun & moon tattoos and tattoos of crosses.