Swallow tattoos are rich with history and symbolism all over the world. Over the centuries, the little bird has been linked to health, wealth, loyalty, and the rigors of long-distance travel.
The Swallow tattoo is cool and trendy nowadays, just as other bird tattoos and old school designs such as the nautical star tattoo. Swallow tattoos are often combined with stars, cherries, flowers, arrows or a banner with text. Popular body parts to wear a swallow tattoo are the hip, chest, lower back and shoulders.
The swallow, as well as bluebirds and sparrows, has always had a symbolic meaning for sailors because these birds were usually the first sign that land was near (before modern navigation technology). A swallow tattoo for a sailor reflected his hope of coming home safely.
Another fact is that swallows return home every year, no matter where they are. Every year, Mission San Juan Capistrano in California plays host to this wonder of nature. A flock of the tiny birds numbering in the tens or even hundreds of thousands descends upon the mission in a grand display of the workings of migration.
The swallow is a bird that chooses a mate for life. Therefore a swallow tattoo is also a symbol for love and loyalty to the family.
