Tattooing has held a long tradition in Christianity − dating back to Jesus’ crucifixion

Historically, many Christians got tattoos around Holy Week − usually a cross − to honor Christ’s martyrdom.

By: Gustavo Morello, Boston College, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: April 5, 2026

Words: 1,461

Last Updated: 3 months, 3 weeks ago

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By Gustavo Morello, Boston College

Holy Week and Easter are perhaps the most important days in the Christian calendar. Many associate those celebrations with church services, processions, candles, incense, fasting and penances.

However, there is another tradition that many Christians follow – that of tattooing. Historically, Easter was an important time for tattoos among some Christian groups. Today, Christian tattooing happens in many parts of the world and all year around. Some Christians visiting …

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