Are you going through your own personal Hel on your search for the perfect Tattoo Design? Well, worry not, we will keep things Loki around here as we bring you some of the most Týrific Norse Mythology Tattoos Asgard has ever seen.
What Is Norse Mythology
Norse mythology is the collection of myths, legends, gods, goddesses, creatures, and cosmic stories originating from the Norse people of Scandinavia, primarily from what is now Norway, Sweden, Denmark, and Iceland. It’s also known as Norse paganism or Germanic mythology, and it was the predominant belief system of the Vikings before the arrival of Christianity in the region.
These myths were passed down orally for generations before being written down in the 13th century, primarily in texts such as the Poetic Edda and the Prose Edda, which were written in Old Norse.
Best Norse Mythology Tattoo Designs
Now that we know a little about Norse Mythology, let’s take a look at some of the most amazing Norse Mythology-inspired tattoos from amazing artists worldwide.
Odin Norse Mythology Tattoo
Odin is the chief god in Norse mythology. He is known as the Allfather and ruler of Asgard, home of the Æsir gods. He’s the god of wisdom, war, death, magic, poetry, and prophecy.
He’s wise, cunning, and deeply mysterious, often appearing in disguise as a grey-bearded wanderer, with a wide-brimmed hat and a cloak billowing in the wind. Odin’s name is linked to the Old Norse Óðr, meaning “fury” or “ecstasy,” capturing both his battle rage and poetic inspiration.
Fenrir Norse Mythology Tattoo
Fenrir is a giant wolf, brother of Jörmungandr and Hel and the son of Loki and the giantess Angrboða. Fearing Fenrir from the moment he was born, the Gods raised him in Asgard to keep an eye on him.
As he grew unnaturally large and powerful, the gods decided he needed to be restrained. Their attempts to bind him were thwarted by his strength until the dwarves crafted a magical ribbon-like chain called Gleipnir.
Tricking Fenrir into being bound by Gleipnir, he grew suspicious and demanded someone place a hand in his mouth as a sign of good faith. Týr, the god of justice, bravely volunteered, and upon being unable to break free, Fenrir chomped down and took his hand.
Thor Norse Mythology Tattoo
God of thunder, lightning, storms, strength, and protection, Thor is the son of Odin and Jörð. He is best known for carrying his small but mighty enchanted war hammer, Mjölnir, which is capable of levelling mountains and always returns when thrown.
Thor is fated to kill the world serpent during Ragnarök; however, he dies shortly after from its venom.
Baldr Norse Mythology Tattoo
Baldr, also known as Baldur, is the god of light, beauty, innocence, and joy in Norse mythology. After Baldr has prophetic dreams of his own death, his mother, Frigg, made every object in the cosmos swear never to harm him, except for mistletoe, which seemed too harmless.
Entertained by his newfound immortality, the other gods began throwing things at Baldr for fun. Loki, having discovered that mistletoe had not sworn the oath to never harm Baldr, crafted an arrow from the plant and tricked Baldr’s brother, Höðr, into throwing it at him, killing him instantly.
Jörmungandr Norse Mythology Tattoo
Brother of Fenrir, Jörmungandr is a giant sea serpent so gigantic that he could wrap around the entire world and bite his own tail. Odin tossed Jörmungandr into the sea because he foresaw how dangerous he would become.
However, during the events of Ragnarok, although killed by Thor with a strike from Mjölnir, the God of Thunder musters only nine steps before succumbing to the beast’s venom and drops dead. This Jörmungandr Tattoo is of Jömungandr from the God of War video game series.
Ægishjálmur Norse Mythology Tattoo
Ægishjálmur, meaning “Helm of Awe” or “Helm of Terror,” is a symbol said to strike fear into the hearts of enemies and grant invincibility. It appears in The Völsunga Saga, where the dragon Fáfnir wore it to increase his power.
The symbol offers protection, especially in battle, creates mental dominance over enemies, and enhances courage, strength, and focus.
Týr Norse Mythology Tattoo
The god of war, law, justice, and honour in Norse mythology, Týr, was deeply respected for his bravery, fairness, and willingness to sacrifice for the greater good. A member of the Æsir, he is often seen as the bravest among them, most famous for his act of courage in sacrificing his arm to Fenrir.
Heimdallr Norse Mythology Tattoo
Heimdallr, also known as Heimdall, is the guardian of Asgard, the watchman of the gods, and the one who stands guard at Bifröst, the rainbow bridge that connects Midgard (Earth) to Asgard.
He’s known for his keen senses, unwavering duty, and for being the one who will blow the Gjallarhorn to signal the beginning of Ragnarök. At Ragnarök, he will face off against Loki, his ancient rival, where they kill each other, making Heimdall’s final act one of honour, sacrifice, and duty.
Huginn & Muninn Norse Mythology Tattoo
Huginn and Muninn are two ravens that belong to Odin who fly across the Nine Realms, gathering information and returning to whisper everything they’ve seen and heard into Odin’s ears.
They depart at dawn, flying all over Midgard and beyond, and by evening, they return and report back to Odin. With their help, Odin can stay informed about everything happening across the cosmos, even without leaving his throne.
Loki Norse Mythology Tattoo
Loki is a shapeshifter, schemer, and trickster god in Norse mythology, one of the most complex figures in Norse myth, known for both aiding the gods and causing them significant trouble.
The blood-brother of Odin, he is technically one of the Æsir gods and instead is the son of Laufey (a giantess) and Fárbauti (a fire giant), making him half-Jötunn (giant). Having been responsible for Baldr’s death, Loki is tied beneath the earth by the gods with a serpent dripping venom onto his face as punishment.
Sleipnir Norse Mythology Tattoo
Sleipnir is Odin’s magical eight-legged horse that is the best and fastest horse in existence, able to gallop between the worlds along Yggdrasil, the World Tree, with ease.
Sleipnir is a child of Loki. When the trickster god tried to sabotage the construction of Asgard’s walls, he transformed into a mare to lure away the giant worker’s stallion named Svaðilfari.
Unfortunately for Loki, he became pregnant and later gave birth to Sleipnir, whom he gifted to Odin.
Troll Norse Mythology Tattoo
Trolls are supernatural beings that inhabit remote areas, such as mountains, caves, and forests. They’re often giants or hulking humanoids, known for being strong but not very clever, and occasionally hostile to humans and gods alike.
They live reclusive lives, avoiding sunlight as they can be turned to stone if caught in its rays.
Draugr Norse Mythology Tattoo
A Draugr is an undead being that rises from its grave to haunt the living. Unlike ghosts or spirits, Draugar have physical bodies and are corpse-like beings with superhuman strength and magical abilities.
A Draugr is typically driven by jealousy, greed, rage, or unfinished business and is also known to guard its buried treasure.
Víðarr Norse Mythology Tattoo
Víðarr (also spelled Vidar) is a Norse god of vengeance, silence, and strength. He’s one of the Æsir, and the son of Odin and the giantess Gríðr. During Ragnarök, after Odin is devoured, Víðarr confronts Fenrir.
Using his magical shoe, he plants one foot on Fenrir’s lower jaw and, with immense force, grabs the wolf’s upper jaw and tears Fenrir’s mouth apart, killing him and avenging Odin.
Bragi Norse Mythology Tattoo
Bragi is the Norse god of poetry, music, and eloquence. He’s considered the bard of the gods, a wise and eloquent figure who lives in Asgard and welcomes fallen warriors into Valhalla with song and story.
Bragi is often paired with Iðunn, the goddess who guards the golden apples that keep the gods youthful. Together, they represent creativity, renewal, and the richness of divine life.
Forseti Norse Mythology Tattoo
Forseti is the god of law, truth, and reconciliation in Norse mythology. He is the son of Baldr and Nanna, and he carries on his father’s legacy of fairness and harmony.
Known to settle all arguments brought before him, no matter how complex, he has a peaceful, diplomatic nature, never rushing to anger. His words are said to be so powerful and fair that even the most stubborn enemies leave his presence reconciled.
Njörðr Norse Mythology Tattoo
Njörðr is a powerful Vanir god from Norse mythology, best known as the god of the sea, sailing, wind, fishing, and prosperity. He’s one of the most important deities when it comes to coastal life, trade, and smooth sailing.
One of Njörðr’s most famous stories involves his marriage to Skaði, the goddess of winter, skiing, and mountains. Skaði wanted to marry Baldr, but was tricked into choosing a husband by only seeing the gods’ feet. She chose Njörðr’s by mistake as he had lovely toes.
They couldn’t agree on where to live, as Njörðr loved the sea and Skaði loved the snowy mountains. They tried to split their time by spending 9 nights at sea and 9 in the mountains. However, it didn’t work out, and they eventually separated, though it’s said they still respected one another.
Freyja Norse Mythology Tattoo
Freyja is the goddess of love, beauty, fertility, war, and magic. She’s a member of the Vanir, but lives among the Æsir in Asgard after the two tribes made peace. One of her most touching stories involves her husband, Óðr, who mysteriously disappears.
Freyja weeps golden tears as she searches for him across the Nine Realms, which is why amber is sometimes called “Freyja’s tears.”
Fryer Norse Mythology Tattoo
Freyr is one of the most beloved and benevolent gods in Norse mythology. Like his sister, Freyr is deeply associated with abundance and life, but his domain is more closely tied to growth, peace, and kingship.
At the end of the world, Ragnarök, Freyr faces the fire giant Surtr. However, he has sacrificed his magical sword to woo the giantess Gerðr. Still, he fights bravely and dies a hero, sacrificing himself for the good of the world.
Skaði Norse Mythology Tattoo
Skaði is a giantess and goddess of winter, skiing, and mountains in Norse mythology. She’s known for her independent spirit, her hunting skills, and her icy strength. Skaði is the daughter of the giant Þjazi, who was killed by the Æsir gods. After her father’s death, Skaði stormed into Asgard armed for vengeance.
Instead of starting a war, the gods offered her compensation. The first was her marriage to Njörðr, but to fully settle her blood feud, the gods also promised to make Skaði laugh.
Loki managed it by tying a rope to a goat and his private parts. As they yanked each other around, Loki’s antics were so ridiculous that Skaði laughed, fulfilling the deal.
Surtr Norse Mythology Tattoo
Surtr, sometimes spelled Surt, is the fearsome fire giant from Norse mythology, ruling over the blazing realm of Muspelheim. His name translates roughly to “the swarthy one” or “black one,” hinting at his connection with both fire and shadow. Surtr is one of the primordial beings whose power and wrath play a crucial role during Ragnarök.
At Ragnarök, Surtr is destined to lead the forces of fire against the gods. Armed with his giant flaming sword, he will advance across the cosmos, setting the world ablaze, engulfing Midgard and the other worlds in an all-consuming inferno.
This act of destruction is seen as both an end and a beginning, clearing away the old order to make room for a new, reborn world.
Frigg Norse Mythology Tattoo
Frigg is the goddess of marriage, motherhood, wisdom, and fate in Norse mythology. She is the wife of Odin, making her the queen of Asgard and one of the highest-ranking goddesses among the Æsir.
Frigg is known for her prophetic powers, her maternal love, and her association with the home and family. Frigg and Freyja share many traits: love, magic, and fertility, with some scholars believing they may have originated as the same goddess in early Germanic mythology.
However, in the Norse myths, they’re distinct as Freyja is more passionate and wild, while Frigg is stoic, queenly, and fate-bound.
Sif Norse Mythology Tattoo
Sif is a goddess of earth, grain, and family, best known in Norse mythology as the wife of Thor, the god of thunder. While she isn’t involved in many wild adventures, Sif represents the gentle power of nature, domestic harmony, and the golden abundance of the land.
Sif, known for her beautiful hair, had it cut off as a prank by Loki. Thor, furious, demanded that Loki make amends. He had the dwarves forge a new magical head of hair, made of real gold, which grew like natural hair.
Svartálfar Norse Mythology Tattoo
The Svartálfar, Old Norse for “black elves” or “swart elves,” are mythical beings often associated with darkness, craftsmanship, and underground realms. They’re sometimes confused or merged with dwarves (Dvergar) in the myths, and many scholars believe they might be the same race under different names.
Hel Norse Mythology Tattoo
Hel is the goddess of death and the underworld who rules over a realm also called Helheim, which is the final resting place for souls who didn’t die in battle. After her birth, the gods saw Hel’s growing power and cast her into the underworld, where she took charge.
After Baldr’s death, Odin sends a messenger to ask her to release him. Hel agrees only if every being in the world weeps for Baldr. All do, except for Loki, who was in disguise, so Baldr remains in Helheim. During Ragnarök, she is said to send forth an army of the dead to battle the gods alongside her siblings.
Mjölnir Norse Mythology Tattoo
Mjölnir is the magical hammer of Thor and one of the most iconic items in Norse mythology, renowned for smashing giants, blessing marriages, and summoning storms. Mjölnir was said to be unbreakable, never getting damaged no matter what it struck, and always returning to Thor’s side when thrown.
Brokkr and Eitri Norse Mythology Tattoo
The creators of Mjölnir, Brokkr and Eitri (also called Sindri in some versions) are two legendary dwarven brothers from Svartálfheim, the realm of master smiths and dark elves.
After the dwarves crafted Sif’s new golden hair, as well as other magical items, Loki then bet Brokkr and Eitri that they couldn’t craft better treasures, and if they could, he’d lose his head.
Eitri worked the forge and Brokkr worked the bellows, with Loki, trying to cheat, turning into a fly and biting Brokkr to break his focus. Despite the distraction, they forged Gullinbursti, Draupnir, and Mjölnir, and although the distraction caused the handle to come out short, the gods declared the dwarves victorious.
Rán Norse Mythology Tattoo
Rán is the Norse goddess or giantess of the sea, particularly representing its treacherous, hidden, and deadly aspects. She is the wife of Ægir, the sea god known for his grand feasts and brewing ale for the gods.
But while Ægir represents the hospitality of the ocean, Rán is its danger, the deep, stormy, and unknowable forces that drag sailors beneath the waves. Rán collects drowned souls using a magical net to sweep sailors into the sea.
Gullfaxi Norse Mythology Tattoo
Gullfaxi is a mythical horse with a golden mane, originally owned by the giant Hrungnir, and later passed on to Magni, the son of Thor. Gullfaxi is renowned for its incredible speed and magical abilities, capable of galloping across land, sea, and even air.
Norns Norse Mythology Tattoo
The Norns are the fate-weavers of Norse mythology, often compared to the Greek Moirai (Fates). Urðr representing the past, Verðandi the present and Skuld the future, shape the lives of gods and humans, determining how long each life lasts and what events must unfold.
Sköll And Hati Norse Mythology Tattoo
Sköll and Hati are mythical wolves famous for forever chasing the celestial bodies across the sky. Sköll chases Sól, the sun goddess, while Hati chases Máni, the moon god.
Every day, Sköll chases the sun across the sky, causing it to move from east to west. Hati does the same with the moon. This cosmic chase explains the movement of the heavens in Norse mythology.
During Ragnarök, their roles reach their end as they will catch their prey, devouring Sól and Máni, plunging the world into darkness and chaos.
Eir Norse Mythology Tattoo
Eir is a goddess or divine handmaiden associated with healing, medicine, and mercy in Norse mythology. Though she doesn’t appear in many surviving myths, she’s deeply respected as a master of healing arts and sometimes called one of the best physicians among the gods.
Ratatoskr Norse Mythology Tattoo
Ratatoskr is a mythical squirrel who lives on Yggdrasil and runs up and down the tree carrying insults between the eagle that sits at the top of Yggdrasil and Níðhöggr, who gnaws at the roots below.
Tanngrisnir & Tanngnjóstr Norse Mythology Tattoo
Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr are Thor’s two mystical goats, who pull his thunder chariot across the sky. They are massive and supernaturally strong, and capable of travelling across the sky, sea, and even the realms.
Every time Thor gets hungry during his travels, he slaughters Tanngrisnir and Tanngnjóstr, cooks them up for dinner, and then uses his hammer Mjölnir to resurrect them the next morning, good as new.
Sigyn Norse Mythology Tattoo
Sigyn is the wife of Loki, the infamous trickster god, and the goddess of fidelity, compassion, and endurance. When Loki is being tortured following the death of Baldr, she holds a bowl above Loki’s face to catch the venom, shielding him from suffering.
But when the bowl fills, she must leave briefly to empty it, and in that moment, the poison drips onto Loki’s face again, and he screams in agony, shaking the earth.
Gullinbursti Norse Mythology Tattoo
Gullinbursti is a boar with shining golden hair that glows in the dark. His bristles glow like fire, lighting the way even through the darkest realms. He can run faster than any horse, across land, air, or sea, never tires and is said to match or exceed the speed of Sleipnir, Odin’s eight-legged steed.
Valkyrie Norse Mythology Tattoo
Valkyries are divine shieldmaidens who serve Odin, whose two key jobs are selecting brave warriors who die in battle and escorting their souls to Valhalla. Once there, these chosen warriors called Einherjar train daily to prepare for Ragnarök, the final battle.
While descriptions vary, Valkyries are often portrayed as radiant, beautiful warrior women, clad in shining armour and winged helmets, and riding flying horses across the skies.
Garmr Norse Mythology Tattoo
Garmr is a monstrous wolf or hound who guards the gates of Hel, the Norse underworld. He is a guardian of the dead, ensuring the souls of the underworld don’t escape.
During Ragnarök, Garmr breaks free from his chains and fights against the god Tyr. This final battle ends with both of them dying, marking one of the many grim face-offs in Ragnarök’s apocalyptic lineup.
Ulfhednar Norse Mythology Tattoo
The Úlfhéðnar were elite Viking warriors who wore wolf pelts into battle and were said to channel the spirit of wolves. They were said to howl, bite, and strike like wolves on the battlefield, terrifying enemies and sometimes even allies.
Some say Úlfhéðnar were real warrior cults, using ritual, herbs, or psychedelics to induce battle frenzy, while others believe they’re mythologized figures, created to explain superhuman feats in battle.
Yggdrasil Norse Mythology Tattoo
Yggdrasil is the great ash tree that connects all realms in Norse mythology. It’s massive, evergreen, and sacred, stretching from the heavens to the underworld, with branches and roots touching every corner of the cosmos.
Yggdrasil holds together the Nine Realms of Asgard, Midgard, Vanaheim, Jötunheim, Alfheim, Svartálfheim, Niflheim, Muspelheim, and Helheim. Odin once sacrificed himself by hanging on Yggdrasil for nine days and nights, pierced by a spear, to gain the knowledge of the runes.
Ragnarök Norse Mythology Tattoo
Ragnarök, meaning “Fate of the Gods” or “Twilight of the Gods,” is the apocalyptic battle prophesied to bring about the destruction of the world, as well as its rebirth. Ragnarök begins with a never-ending winter lasting three years with no summer in between, known as Fimbulwinter.
The sun and moon are swallowed by Sköll and Hati, plunging the world into darkness. Earthquakes begin as Loki breaks free, and the world serpent Jörmungandr rises, the seas flood, and Naglfar, the ship made of dead men’s nails, sets sail.
The gods march into battle against the forces of chaos at Vígríðr. Most of the gods and beasts perish, with Surtr engulfing the world in flames. A new world rises from the sea with Baldr and Höðr returning from the underworld, and Líf and Lífthrasir, two humans, survive in Hoddmímir’s wood and repopulate the world.
Auðumbla Norse Mythology Tattoo
Auðumbla is the primeval cow who appears right at the beginning of Norse creation. She’s the cosmic nourisher, born from the icy chaos of Ginnungagap, the yawning void between fire and ice.
Auðumbla nourished Ymir, the first frost giant and ancestor of all jötnar (giants), by producing four rivers of milk from her udders every day. While Ymir was growing, Auðumbla licked a salty, rime-covered block of ice and slowly uncovered a man.
On Day 1, hair appeared; on Day 2, a head emerged; and on Day 3, a full man stood tall, named Búri, who became the ancestor of the gods, including Odin.
Where To Get Your Norse Mythology Tattoo
Now that we’ve seen amazing Norse Mythology tattoos from amazing artists. Let’s take a look at some of the best locations for your potential new ink.
Shoulder With Norse Mythology Tattoo
The shoulder is a naturally curved canvas, great for circular or symmetrical designs such as the Ægishjálmur. This location can be easily shown off or hidden, depending on the outfit, and shoulder tattoos often symbolize strength, support, and responsibility.
Back Norse Mythology Tattoo
The back is the largest canvas, offering maximum detail and creativity. Here, you can tell a full story from the shoulder blades to the lower back, such as this amazing Ragnarök piece. Back tattoos often symbolize protection, mystery, or legacy.
Leg With Norse Mythology Tattoo
The leg offers a lot of versatility. You can keep it discreet by having it high up on your thigh, or more displayed down on your calf. They are great for vertical designs and symbolize movement, progress, and journey.
Norse Mythology Arm Tattoo
The arm is one of the most versatile placement locations, as it is easy to extend into sleeves or coordinate with the shoulder, chest, or back. Upper arm tattoos often symbolize power and protection, while forearm tattoos typically represent communication, strength, and visibility.
Chest Norse Mythology Tattoo
Chest tattoos are often placed over the heart, symbolizing deep meanings of love, courage, loss, or honour. The chest is a powerful centre-point of the body, great for symmetrical or centrepiece designs.
Conclusion
Unfortunately, our journey is Thor-ver. Thanks for joining us on this wonderful journey through the nine realms of the Norse Mythology Tattoo. But don’t Frigg out, we’ve still got more amazing Tattoo articles for you to check out before Ragnarök comes, such as these Celtic Tattoo Designs, these Roman Mythology Tattoos Ideas, or these Aztec Mythology Tattoos.
