43 Nostalgic And Meaningful Roman Tattoos Ideas Taking A Trip Down Memory Lane

Many tattoos find a purpose when forming ties with cultures and empires that shaped the foundation of what we abide by today; one of which remains the land of Roman tattoos.

 Roman tattoos not only unite Europeans, Africans and Asians that abide by principles the Romans initially set, but they also honor the legends that shed blood for the people of Rome.

And while Roman tattoos also cover timelessly iconic monuments like the Colosseum, underneath all the layers is a message that is powerful, and illustrations that move mountains. Nonetheless, to learn about them all, allow this guide to sweep you off your feet!

A Token For The Greatness Existing Within The Roman Empire: The Levitating Meaning Behind Roman Tattoos

@charleeink_

Roman tattoos are a feast for the eyes without a doubt. However, above all, they represent the rich history and artistic tokens that the Romans created and left behind, while also being a direct portal for those finding a home in the traditions that emanated through Roman people.

Many also find a sense of belonging in Roman tattoos due to feeling closer to their ancestors, while the rest pursue them simply to make improvements to their cognitive and behavioral qualities.

Ancient And Euphoric Roman Tattoo Designs That Embody Feelings Of Excellence

@larslunsing

Despite what most say, Roman tattoos aren't just based on depictions that portray statues, portraits, and modern art. They also cover feelings of nostalgia, respect, and commemoration.

From ancient Roman symbols to numbers that Roman people would confide in during vulnerable times, there are plenty of gems that Roman tattoos offer. To learn about them all, skim through the following list.

Roman Colosseum Tattoo: Making Room For Spectators

@sagearttattoo

The Roman Colosseum is where the mentality of the Romans truly blossomed, depicting a knack for brutality as a form of entertainment. 

Nonetheless, due to being a forming piece of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum remains a leader among Roman tattoos.

Much like its nature in real life, a Roman Colosseum is gigantic as a tattoo. Therefore, to pull it off, it’s best to use spacious areas such as the back or the sleeve.

Roman Numbers Tattoo: Manifesting Positive News

@didi_tattoo_

Roman numbers, otherwise known as Roman numerals, are solid components to wear if your ancestors are fellow members of the Roman Empire.

Not only are the numbers you select open to interpretation, but the creative process of having them installed is quite easy, painless, and time-friendly.

Often, Roman numbers either serve as a memorial tattoo for the deceased, or to celebrate a new beginning. Either way, the best areas remain the upper forearm, the chest, and the area behind the ear, while the best number remains the 777 tattoo.

Roman Soldiers Tattoo: Ode To The Warrior's

@jaysall_tattoo

Roman soldiers were full of characteristics that men work their entire lives trying to replicate. They were disciplined, consistent, and never considered giving up as part of their options.

However, due to how brutal the Roman empire would be against failure and incompetency, Roman soldiers also had post-traumatic aftermaths from war.

To honor their resilient mindset in spite of all that was plotted against them, an army of Roman soldiers remains a common tattoo among this genre. With emblems of the key, and a complex portrait of a warrior tattoo, this piece cements Roman soldiers and their legacies until eternity.

Ancient Roman Tattoo: A Blast From The Past

@aleman_art

Ancient Roman tattoos are no more than small tattoos with big dreams. From a design standpoint, ancient Roman tattoos can be a good artwork for beginners to contemplate.

 From coins to emblems of spears, an ancient Roman tattoo accommodates anything and everything representing their culture and legacy.

The wrist emerges as the most stable candidate for the design, which can expand into a sleeve tattoo with a compilation of patchwork tattoos.

Roman Catholic Tattoo: Exercising Your Beliefs

@bongwaterink

A huge chunk of Romans believed and lived through Catholicism, with many wearing religious emblems on their bodies to find strength in their faith.

Although the movement was scrutinized heavily during that time, Romans also wore tattoos that replicated the hands of God, a painting that stands strong as a candidate to this day.

The best part about Roman Catholic tattoos is its versatility, which allows the design to accommodate Rosary beads as well as the depiction of St. Michael.

Roman Empire Tattoo: A Stepping Stone To Development

@cronozan

Roman empire tattoos are huge in the world of Roman tattoos. And it's easy to see why.

 Before the Roman empire, most people belonging there had to fight to live by the day. However, due to the existence of the Roman republic, the members not only found independence, but also found more purpose in life.

Much like a warrior tattoo, a Roman empire tattoo can be carried solely by a helmet. However, adding caricatures can also be a good way to meet the benchmark.

Roman Warrior Tattoo: Bulking Up

Roman people had to be tough. They were always prepared to go to war, or anything that resembled survival.

And while those days are long gone, mirroring their warrior spirit can be good to survive through modern day hardships, while also being able to grasp just how tough they had it.

 To commemorate them without missing a beat, a high-detailed figurine with their armor and helmet must be worn as the tattoo.

Roman Mythology Tattoo: Using Age-Old Tokens

@madgreytattoo

Roman mythology, much like Greek mythology, is one full of popular figures, such as Claudius and Trajan.

When all is said and done, adding a compilation of components that describe the nature and the history of Roman mythology is perhaps the best way to pay homage to the empire.

A sleeve tattoo is a prominent pick for those seeking to replicate such a vast design, as it allows the artwork to abide by a structure, while also minimizing the pain levels.

Roman Gladiator Tattoo: A Resilient Mindset

@humancanvas_

Roman gladiator tattoos educate us on the golden era of the Roman empire, a majority of which was shaped by Marcus Aurelius alone.

Despite being a stoic, Marcus Aurelius was perceived as the last promising leader of the Roman empire, with tons of wisdom, clarity, and discipline as a leader.

Due to being the face of stoicism, many consider him a warrior who fought with purpose, bringing a Roman gladiator tattoo to life.

Roman God Tattoo: Harboring A Strong Spirit

@brett_duvi

The world of Roman tattoos also entertains the Gods that helped shape the formative stages of Roman mythology, each of which specialize in different roles.

While Neptune is a great Roman God tattoo to pursue if you have an everlasting obsession for being in the ocean, Mars can be a good God to rely on if you’re currently struggling with hardship.

The depiction above features Janus, who can provide a ray of light when starting new chapters in life.

Roman Helmet Tattoo: In Honor Of The Soldiers

@haven_tattoo_studio

Roman soldiers mostly defended themselves against arrows and spears, making helmets an essential for those going to war.

In this day and age, their narrow and sharp helmets aren’t just used to depict drawings of the soldiers who shed blood for their empire, but also perceived as an art piece for those harboring a deep sense of respect for the soldiers.

A Roman helmet tattoo is often pursued as a solo piece, albeit finding more strength when paired with shields and armors.

Roman Legion Tattoo: For The Citizens Behind The Roman Empire

@ralphnavea.art

Commemorating those that went to war despite being average citizens is a Roman legion tattoo, which rewinds back to the Roman republic.

With over 5200 members, the Roman legion had one of the largest military forces during that time, which is exactly what the tattoo depicts.

Covered from head to toe in gear, most only wear what the warriors used to honor their empire, such as a helmet, spear, and armor.

Roman Statue Tattoo: Something To Behold

@lazybones_tattoo

With chiseled physiques and flashes of war written all over their face, Romans met the modern aesthetics that most people spend years to mimic in this day and age.

In honor of the beauty they possessed, Roman statues are quite prominent in the world of tattoos, with figurines being the most common.

A close-up portrait bringing light to their lean facial structure is a common way to go about things. However, to make things a tad bit easier, pursue figurines as opposed to the former.

Roman Eagle Tattoo: Clinical Confidants

@makebelievetattoos

Eagles not only enriched the warriors involved in the Roman Empire with strength to overcome unforeseeable challenges. They also served as wingmen, making the members wary of potential enemies.

Roman eagles also freed warriors from their fear, empowering their mind and soul before each battle.

Unlike the average eagle tattoo, a Roman eagle tattoo stays open-minded as a design, pairing best with highly-sculpted portraits for an incredible view.

Roman Goddess Tattoo: Emblems Of Wisdom

@maomaochua_tattoos

Much like Roman Gods, Goddesses also find a place in the world of art, serving as tokens of appeal with tons of philosophical gifts underneath.

Among the most prominent Roman Goddesses is Fortuna, who is known for providing years of good news and flipping the script in a positive way.

Based on the former explanation, a Roman Goddess tattoo pairs best with those seeking a breakthrough and some redemption against bad times in life.

Roman Cross Tattoo: In The Name Of Christ

@kenbonetattoo

Romans are big on Christianity, finding purpose and power in their faith and religious beliefs.

The Cross worn by Romans illustrates mannerisms of a Latin Cross, mirroring a wooden structure for a distinct look.

While aiding one to find strength through God is the initial intention of Roman Cross tattoos, one can even pay homage to Jesus Christ and the deceased by depicting his crucifixion.

Roman Leaf Tattoo: Protection From Negativity

@lotus_tattoo_constanta

Similar to a Greek laurel, a Roman leaf associates itself with protection, serving as a vital component between wearers and their mental health.

Much like an armband tattoo and a semicolon, each depiction of a Roman leaf shields users and their mental well-being, erasing harmful intrusive thoughts with ease.

A Roman leaf tattoo is a personal token, which stands out most when pursuing growth. Therefore, place it underneath the collarbone, or any other private area such as the chest.

 Traditional Roman Tattoo: Tied By Rituals

@fabio_tatangelo

Roman Shield Tattoo: Prevention Of Bad Omen

@andyoctoberart

Roman Spear Tattoo: Going All Out

@ego.romantic

Roman Armor Tattoo: Recovering From Loss

@beebe_artistry

Roman Crown Tattoo: For The Leaders And Kings

@inknaction412

Roman Armband Tattoo: Being Transparent About Vulnerable Times

@inkscooltattoos

Roman Gladius Tattoo: A Dagger For Fighters

@romantattooing

Frequently Asked Question

Wearing a Roman tattoo is anything but complicated. As long as you're aware of what you want the tattoo to represent, the rest of the portions will present itself accordingly.

Still, if you've got feelings of doubt clouding your thoughts, allow the following questions to help you out. 

Q: Were Romans allowed to wear tattoos?

Ans: Believe it or not, despite Roman tattoos and their popularity in the modern era, Roman people were banned from wearing tattoos, as the community saw body modifications as signs of weakness, also associating them with bad omen.

Q: What makes Roman tattoos so favorable?

Ans: Roman tattoos honor the soldiers and Gods who contributed to the greatness found in ancient Roman history, mythology, as well as modern art.

Q: Why is 777 so important in the era of Roman tattoos?

Ans: In ancient Roman mythology, the trio of 7 serves as a token to positivity, protection, and a sense of tranquility, which often led to good results.

Conclusion

All in all, Roman tattoos are great tokens of remembrance for those seeking a way to pay their respects to their ancestors. Additionally, Roman tattoos are also pretty effective if you have a knack for fine art.

From emblems that resonate with the prowess of the Roman empire to symbols that manifest good luck, there are plenty of options to choose from when you commit to a Roman tattoo. To best pull it off, find something that touches your soul.