Cross Symbol ✝ Copy & Paste — 200+ Cross Symbols, Emojis & Religious Crosses

Welcome to the largest collection of cross symbols on the web. Whether you need a Christian cross ✝ for religious posts, a Celtic cross ☩ for cultural content, the Iron Cross ✠ for historical references, the Orthodox cross ☦, or any of 200+ other cross symbols and emojis — you’ll find them all here, ready to copy and paste in one click.

Cross symbols are among the most searched and shared text characters worldwide. From religious devotion and memorial posts to gothic aesthetic content and architectural references, the cross symbol carries deep meaning across cultures, faiths, and generations. In the United States alone, over 27,000 people search for cross symbols every month — for Instagram bios, TikTok captions, WhatsApp messages, Word documents, tattoo references, and Bible study materials.

Our cross symbol collection includes every major variation: the Latin cross ✝ used in Christianity, the Orthodox cross ☦ with its three crossbars, the Celtic cross ☩ with its iconic circle, the Maltese cross ✠ associated with the Knights Hospitaller, the Jerusalem cross with five crosses representing Christ’s wounds, the Egyptian Ankh ☥ (cross of life), and dozens more. Each symbol is a real Unicode character that works perfectly across all devices — iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, all browsers, and every social media platform.

Click any cross symbol below to copy it instantly to your clipboard. No registration, no downloads, no fees — just free cross symbols ready to paste anywhere. Use them in your social media bio, tattoo designs, religious posts, memorial messages, gothic aesthetic content, or anywhere you want to add deep meaning with a single character.

✓ 100% Free ✓ One-click Copy ✓ Works Everywhere ✓ 200+ Symbols

How to Copy & Paste Cross Symbols (3 Easy Steps)

Copying and pasting cross symbols from CoolSymbol.io takes just three simple steps and works on any device — iPhone, Android, Windows, Mac, or Chromebook. No special software, keyboard shortcuts, or technical skills required.

Step 1: Find Your Cross Symbol

Browse our collection of 200+ cross symbols above, or use the search bar to find a specific cross. You can search by name (like “Celtic” or “Iron”), by meaning (like “religious” or “gothic”), or by usage (like “Instagram” or “tattoo”). Use the category filter tabs to quickly switch between Christian crosses, Orthodox crosses, decorative crosses, and more.

Step 2: Click to Copy Instantly

Click any cross symbol — it copies to your clipboard in a single click. A green confirmation notification will appear in the bottom-right corner of your screen showing exactly which symbol you copied. No selecting text, no right-clicking, no menus to navigate. Just one click and the symbol is ready.

Step 3: Paste Anywhere

Paste the cross symbol into any app or website — Instagram bio, TikTok caption, Discord username, WhatsApp message, Word document, email, tattoo design template, or anywhere else. On mobile, long-press in any text field and tap “Paste.” On desktop, press Ctrl+V (Windows) or Cmd+V (Mac).

What Do Cross Symbols Mean? Complete Guide to Cross Symbolism

Cross symbols are among the oldest and most powerful symbols in human history. While most people associate the cross with Christianity, cross-shaped symbols have appeared in cultures worldwide for over 4,000 years — long before the Christian era. From ancient Egypt’s Ankh to the Celtic sun cross, from medical symbols to mathematical operations, the cross carries dozens of meanings depending on context, culture, and orientation.

What Does the Christian Cross ✝ Symbolize?

The Christian cross is the most widely recognized religious symbol in the world, representing the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for humanity’s salvation. The Latin cross ✝ with a longer vertical arm is the standard form used in Western Christianity (Catholic, Protestant, and most denominations). It symbolizes love, salvation, redemption, and eternal life. The cross became Christianity’s primary symbol around the 4th century AD, after Emperor Constantine’s conversion. Before that, early Christians often used the fish symbol (Ichthys) instead.

What Does the Orthodox Cross ☦ Symbolize?

The Orthodox cross, also called the Russian Orthodox cross or Eastern Orthodox cross, features three crossbars instead of one. The top short bar represents the inscription “INRI” (Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews) that Pontius Pilate placed above Jesus. The middle long bar is the main horizontal arm. The bottom slanted bar represents the footrest, with its angle pointing up toward the “good thief” who repented and down toward the “bad thief” who didn’t. This cross is the primary symbol of Eastern Orthodox Christianity, particularly in Russia, Greece, Ukraine, and Eastern Europe.

What Does the Celtic Cross ☩ Symbolize?

The Celtic cross combines a traditional Christian cross with a circle around the intersection — symbolizing the unity of heaven and earth, the eternal nature of God, or the sun (in pre-Christian Celtic traditions). According to legend, St. Patrick created the Celtic cross by combining the Christian cross with the pagan sun symbol to help Irish pagans transition to Christianity. Today, the Celtic cross represents Irish heritage, faith, eternity, and the connection between the spiritual and physical worlds. It’s commonly seen in Irish cemeteries, jewelry, and tattoos.

What Does the Iron Cross ✠ Symbolize?

The Iron Cross is a German military decoration that originated in 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars. Historically, it symbolized bravery and military service in the German army. However, the symbol’s meaning has become controversial due to its use by Nazi Germany during World War II. Today, the Iron Cross is sometimes used in motorcycle culture, heavy metal aesthetics, and tattoo art — usually disconnected from its political history. It’s important to note that displaying the Iron Cross in certain contexts may be offensive or, in some countries like Germany, even illegal depending on the specific variant used.

What Does the Upside Down Cross Symbolize?

The upside down cross (inverted cross) has two completely different meanings depending on context. In Christian tradition, it’s known as the Cross of St. Peter — Saint Peter requested to be crucified upside down because he felt unworthy to die in the same position as Jesus. So in Catholic tradition, the inverted cross actually represents humility and martyrdom. However, in modern popular culture, the upside down cross has been adopted as an anti-Christian symbol, often associated with satanism, occult themes, gothic aesthetics, and heavy metal. Context matters greatly — the same symbol can mean reverence or rebellion.

What Do Three Crosses Symbolize?

Three crosses together symbolize the crucifixion scene at Calvary (Golgotha), where Jesus was crucified between two criminals. In Christian symbolism, the three crosses represent Jesus in the middle, the repentant thief on one side, and the unrepentant thief on the other. Three crosses are often used in cemetery monuments, religious art, and Easter displays. They also appear in roadside memorials in many Christian countries. Some interpretations connect the three crosses to the Holy Trinity (Father, Son, Holy Spirit), though this is less common.

What Does the Red Cross Symbol Mean?

The Red Cross symbol — a red cross on white background — is the internationally recognized symbol of medical and humanitarian aid, used by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement since 1863. It represents neutrality, protection, and emergency medical assistance during wartime and disasters. Under the Geneva Conventions, the Red Cross symbol is legally protected — only authorized medical and humanitarian organizations can use it. Unauthorized use is actually illegal in most countries. The symbol is intentionally the inverse of the Swiss flag, honoring the Red Cross’s Swiss origins.

What Does the Egyptian Ankh ☥ (Cross of Life) Symbolize?

The Ankh, also called the Egyptian cross or “cross of life,” is one of the oldest and most recognizable symbols from ancient Egypt. Dating back over 5,000 years, the Ankh combines a cross with a loop at the top, representing eternal life, immortality, and the union of male and female (the loop representing female, the cross representing male). Egyptian gods are often depicted holding the Ankh, granting eternal life to pharaohs. Today, the Ankh is widely used in Egyptian-themed jewelry, tattoos, and spiritual contexts beyond Christianity.

Cross Symbols by Religion, Culture & Tradition

Christianity Cross Symbols ✝ ✞ ✟ ♱

Christianity uses several variations of the cross symbol. The Latin cross ✝ is the standard form, representing Jesus’s crucifixion. The shadowed Latin cross ✞ adds depth for artistic emphasis. The outlined Latin cross ✟ is commonly used in Christian graphics and tattoos. Different Christian denominations sometimes prefer specific cross styles — Catholics often use the crucifix (cross with Jesus’s body), Protestants prefer the plain Latin cross, and many evangelical movements use stylized variations.

Catholic Cross Symbols

Catholic crosses include the standard Latin cross ✝, the Papal Cross (three crossbars used by the Pope), the Cross of St. Peter (inverted cross representing humility), and the crucifix (cross with Jesus’s body attached). The Catholic Church has used the cross as its primary symbol since the 4th century AD. Catholic crosses often appear in churches, religious jewelry, Bibles, and home altars worldwide.

Orthodox Cross Symbols ☦

Eastern Orthodox Christianity uses the three-bar Orthodox cross ☦ as its primary symbol. This cross is dominant in Russia, Greece, Ukraine, Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Ethiopian Orthodox communities. The Greek Orthodox cross has equal arms (Greek cross style), while the Russian Orthodox cross uses the slanted footrest version. Both represent the Eastern Christian tradition that traces back to the original apostolic churches.

Lutheran & Protestant Cross Symbols

Lutheran and Protestant denominations primarily use the plain Latin cross ✝ without the crucifix figure, emphasizing the resurrection rather than the crucifixion itself. The Luther Rose (cross within a heart, within a rose) is the specific symbol of Lutheranism. Anglican churches often use the Canterbury cross. Most Protestant denominations prefer simpler, less decorated crosses than Catholic and Orthodox traditions.

Celtic & Irish Cross Symbols ☩

The Celtic cross ☩ originated in Ireland and Scotland around the 9th century AD. It combines a Christian cross with a ring (nimbus) around the intersection. Celtic crosses are deeply associated with Irish Catholicism but predate Christianity in some forms. They appear extensively in Irish cemeteries, stone monuments (like the famous High Crosses of Ireland), Celtic jewelry, and tattoo art representing Irish heritage and faith.

Egyptian Cross Symbols (Ankh) ☥

The Ankh ☥ predates Christianity by thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians considered it the “key of life” or “key of the Nile” — a symbol of eternal life, divine protection, and the afterlife. Pharaohs were depicted holding Ankhs to symbolize their divine authority. Modern usage of the Ankh extends beyond religious contexts into fashion, jewelry, tattoo culture, and neo-pagan spiritual practices.

Maltese Cross ✠ (Knights of Malta)

The Maltese cross ✠ has eight points and is associated with the Knights Hospitaller (later the Knights of Malta), a Catholic military order founded in the 11th century. The eight points represent the eight obligations or beatitudes of the knights. Today, the Maltese cross appears on the flag of Malta, in fire department logos worldwide (especially in the United States), in various military decorations, and in motorcycle culture.

Jerusalem Cross (Crusader’s Cross)

The Jerusalem cross features a large Greek cross surrounded by four smaller crosses in the corners — five crosses total, representing the five wounds of Christ during the crucifixion. Also called the Crusader’s Cross, it was the symbol of the Kingdom of Jerusalem during the Crusades (1099-1291). Today, it appears on the flag of Georgia (country), in Christian pilgrimage sites in the Holy Land, and as a popular religious tattoo design.

How to Use Cross Symbols on Instagram, TikTok, Discord & More

Cross symbols work seamlessly across all major social media platforms and digital apps. Whether you’re decorating an Instagram bio, creating a TikTok caption, customizing a Discord username, or formatting a Word document, our cross symbols are 100% compatible and easy to use. Here’s how to use them on each platform.

Cross Symbols for Instagram Bio & Posts

Adding a cross symbol to your Instagram bio is a powerful way to express faith, spirituality, or aesthetic preference. Religious Christians often use ✝ at the start or end of their bio. Catholic users might combine ✝ with ❤️ to symbolize “faith and love.” Gothic aesthetic accounts use the inverted cross or Iron cross for visual impact. Simply tap any cross symbol above, then paste into the “Edit Profile” section on Instagram. You can also use crosses in captions, story text, and direct messages.

Cross Symbols for TikTok Usernames & Captions

TikTok creators frequently use cross symbols in their usernames and video captions to convey faith, identity, or aesthetic. The Christian cross ✝ is most popular among faith-based creators, while gothic/emo TikTok users prefer the inverted cross or Iron Cross styles. To add a cross to your TikTok username, copy any symbol above, then go to “Edit Profile” and paste it before or after your existing username. Crosses also work great in TikTok video captions and comments.

Cross Symbols for Discord Username & Server Names

Discord users love decorating their usernames with religious symbols and aesthetic decorators. The Orthodox cross ☦ is popular among Eastern European users, while gaming clans might use the Iron Cross ✠ for a tactical/military theme. Christian Discord servers often include ✝ in their server name or category headers. Discord supports all Unicode characters, so any cross symbol from this page will work in usernames, server names, channel names, and chat messages.

Cross Symbols on WhatsApp

WhatsApp fully supports all Unicode cross symbols. Use them in your status, profile name, broadcast messages, and group names. Many users add ✝ to their WhatsApp status for religious expression or include cross symbols in memorial group chats. The symbols display the same way on WhatsApp Web (desktop), WhatsApp Business, and the regular WhatsApp app on iPhone and Android.

Cross Symbols in Microsoft Word & Google Docs

To insert a cross symbol in Microsoft Word, you have three options. First, simply copy a symbol from this page and paste it directly into your document (Ctrl+V). Second, use Word’s “Insert > Symbol” menu and navigate to the “Geometric Shapes” or “Dingbats” section. Third, type the Unicode code (like 2720 for ✠) and press Alt+X. Google Docs works similarly — just paste any copied symbol, or use “Insert > Special Characters” and search for “cross.”

Cross Symbols on iPhone & iPad

On iPhone, copy any cross symbol from this page, then paste into any text field — Messages, Notes, Mail, social media, or any app. You can also add cross symbols to your iPhone’s Text Replacement shortcuts: go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement, add a phrase like “+cross” that replaces with ✝. This way, typing “+cross” automatically inserts the cross symbol anywhere on your iPhone. The iPad works exactly the same way.

How to Type Cross Symbols on Keyboard (Windows, Mac, Linux)

Type Cross Symbol on Windows Keyboard

Windows offers several methods to type cross symbols without copying from this page. Method 1: Use the Character Map app — search “Character Map” in your Start menu, find the cross symbol you want, and click “Copy.” Method 2: Use Alt codes — hold Alt and type 0134 on the numeric keypad to get the dagger † (similar to a cross). Method 3: In Word specifically, type the Unicode code (like 2720) and press Alt+X to convert it to the actual symbol ✠.

Type Cross Symbol on Mac Keyboard

Mac users can access cross symbols through several methods. Method 1: Press Control+Command+Space to open the emoji and symbol picker, then search “cross.” Method 2: Use the Character Viewer — go to Edit menu in any app and select “Emoji & Symbols.” Method 3: Set up custom text replacement in System Preferences > Keyboard > Text > Replace, mapping a shortcut like “//cross” to ✝.

Cross Symbol Unicode Codes

Every cross symbol has a unique Unicode code that works across all platforms and programming languages. Common cross symbol Unicode values include: Latin Cross ✝ (U+271D), Shadowed Latin Cross ✞ (U+271E), Outlined Latin Cross ✟ (U+271F), Orthodox Cross ☦ (U+2626), Cross of Jerusalem ☩ (U+2629), Maltese Cross ✠ (U+2720), Heavy Greek Cross ✚ (U+271A), and Ankh ☥ (U+2625). You can use these codes in HTML, CSS, LaTeX, and most programming languages.

Cross Symbols in HTML & CSS

For web developers, cross symbols can be inserted in HTML using their Unicode references. Use the proper Unicode code for the Latin cross, Orthodox cross, or Maltese cross. In CSS, you can use cross symbols in content properties for decorative purposes. These symbols render correctly across all modern browsers — Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge — and on both desktop and mobile devices.

Tips for Using Cross Symbols Respectfully

Cross symbols carry deep meaning for billions of people worldwide. Here are essential tips for using them thoughtfully and respectfully across different contexts.

Be aware of religious significance. Many cross symbols are sacred to Christians, Orthodox Christians, Catholics, and various other faith communities. Using them in disrespectful contexts can be hurtful and offensive. If you’re using cross symbols for religious expression, that’s wonderful — but consider the audience if you’re using them for purely aesthetic or comedic purposes.

Understand cultural and historical context. Some cross variations (like the Iron Cross) have controversial historical associations. The Iron Cross was used by Nazi Germany during WWII, and certain variants are actually illegal to display in Germany. The upside-down cross has multiple interpretations — religious (Cross of St. Peter) and anti-religious (modern occult symbol). Context matters enormously.

Use the right cross for the right purpose. For Christian content, use ✝ (Latin cross). For Orthodox content, use ☦. For Catholic-specific posts, the crucifix (cross with figure) is more appropriate. For Celtic heritage, use ☩. For Egyptian or ancient themes, use the Ankh ☥. Matching the right cross to the right context shows knowledge and respect.

Memorial and tribute usage. When using cross symbols for memorial posts or tribute messages (RIP, etc.), the Latin cross ✝ is most universally appropriate in Western Christian contexts. For Orthodox communities, ☦ is preferred. Always be sensitive to the deceased person’s actual faith — using a Christian cross for a non-Christian’s memorial may be inappropriate.

Avoid combining religiously incompatible symbols. Don’t combine cross symbols with symbols from other religions in ways that might be offensive — like placing the Christian cross next to symbols that traditionally oppose Christianity. Be especially careful with combinations involving the Star of David, Crescent Moon, or other faith symbols.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cross Symbols

What does the cross symbol mean in Christianity?

The cross symbol in Christianity represents the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for humanity’s salvation. It symbolizes love, redemption, eternal life, and the victory of life over death. The cross became Christianity’s primary symbol around the 4th century AD, replacing earlier symbols like the fish (Ichthys). For Christians, wearing or displaying the cross is an act of faith and identification with Christ’s teachings.

What does an upside down cross symbolize?

The upside down cross has two contradictory meanings. In Christianity, it’s the Cross of St. Peter — representing humility, as Saint Peter was crucified upside down because he felt unworthy to die in the same position as Jesus. In modern popular culture, however, it’s often associated with anti-Christian, occult, satanic, or gothic themes. The meaning depends entirely on context and intent.

What do 3 crosses symbolize?

Three crosses together symbolize the crucifixion scene at Calvary (Golgotha), where Jesus was crucified between two criminals. The middle cross represents Jesus, while the side crosses represent the repentant thief and the unrepentant thief. Three crosses are commonly seen in cemeteries, religious art, Easter displays, and roadside memorials throughout Christian regions.

What does the Iron Cross symbolize?

The Iron Cross is a German military decoration originating in 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars, originally symbolizing military valor and service. However, its meaning has become controversial due to its use by Nazi Germany during WWII. Today, the Iron Cross is sometimes used in motorcycle culture, heavy metal aesthetics, and tattoo art — generally disconnected from political meaning. Certain variants remain illegal to display in Germany.

What does the Celtic Cross symbolize?

The Celtic cross combines a Christian cross with a circle, symbolizing the unity of heaven and earth, eternity, and the harmony between the physical and spiritual worlds. According to legend, St. Patrick created it by combining the Christian cross with the pagan sun symbol to help Irish pagans transition to Christianity. Today, it represents Irish heritage, Celtic Christianity, and the connection between ancient and modern spiritual traditions.

What does the Red Cross symbol mean?

The Red Cross symbol — a red cross on a white background — is the internationally recognized symbol of medical and humanitarian aid, used by the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement since 1863. It represents neutrality, protection, and emergency medical assistance, especially during war and disasters. Under the Geneva Conventions, the Red Cross symbol is legally protected — only authorized medical and humanitarian organizations can use it.

How do I type a cross symbol on iPhone?

On iPhone, the easiest method is to copy a cross symbol from CoolSymbol.io and paste it where needed. Alternatively, set up a Text Replacement shortcut: go to Settings > General > Keyboard > Text Replacement, tap the + button, and create a shortcut like “+cross” that replaces with ✝. Now typing “+cross” anywhere on your iPhone automatically produces the cross symbol.

How do I type a cross symbol on Windows keyboard?

On Windows, there are several methods. Method 1: Open Character Map (search in Start menu), find the cross, click Copy, then paste anywhere. Method 2: In Microsoft Word, type the Unicode code (like 2720 for ✠) and press Alt+X to convert it. Method 3: Use Alt codes — hold Alt and type 0134 on the numeric keypad for the dagger † symbol. Method 4: Use the Windows emoji picker (Win+. or Win+;) and search “cross.”

Are cross symbols free to use?

Yes, every cross symbol on CoolSymbol.io is 100% free to use for personal and commercial purposes. There’s no subscription, no account required, no fees, and no usage limits. You can use these cross symbols in social media posts, websites, documents, tattoo designs, jewelry mockups, religious materials, and any other context. The only exception is the Red Cross emblem, which is legally protected by the Geneva Conventions.

Do cross symbols work on Instagram and TikTok?

Yes, all cross symbols on this page work perfectly on Instagram (bios, captions, comments, story text, DMs), TikTok (usernames, captions, comments, bios), and every other major social media platform. They are standard Unicode characters supported by all modern devices and apps. Simply copy any symbol and paste it into your social media app — no special configuration needed.

What is the Orthodox Cross and why does it have three bars?

The Orthodox Cross has three horizontal bars, each with specific meaning. The top short bar represents the inscription “INRI” (Jesus of Nazareth, King of the Jews) that Pontius Pilate placed above Jesus on the cross. The middle long bar is the main crossbeam where Jesus’s arms were nailed. The bottom slanted bar represents the footrest — with one end up (toward the repentant thief who entered heaven) and one end down (toward the unrepentant thief).

Why is the cross the symbol of Christianity?

The cross became Christianity’s symbol because it represents the crucifixion of Jesus Christ — the central event of Christian faith. Through his death on the cross, Christians believe Jesus paid for humanity’s sins and made eternal life possible. The cross transformed from an instrument of execution (used by the Romans) into a symbol of victory over death, redemption, and divine love. It became the dominant Christian symbol around the 4th century AD under Emperor Constantine.

What’s the difference between Catholic and Protestant cross symbols?

Catholics typically use the crucifix — a cross with the figure of Jesus attached — emphasizing Christ’s sacrifice and suffering. Protestants generally use a plain Latin cross ✝ without the figure, emphasizing the resurrection rather than the crucifixion. Catholics view the crucifix as a focus for meditation on Christ’s sacrifice, while Protestants view the empty cross as a symbol of Jesus’s victory over death and his resurrection.

What does the Maltese Cross ✠ symbolize?

The Maltese Cross has eight points and is the symbol of the Knights Hospitaller (later the Sovereign Military Order of Malta), a Catholic military order founded in the 11th century. The eight points traditionally represent the eight obligations of the knights or the Beatitudes from Christ’s Sermon on the Mount. Today, it appears on the flag of Malta, on fire department badges worldwide (especially in the United States), and in various military decorations and motorcycle culture.

What does the Egyptian Ankh ☥ symbolize?

The Ankh, also called the Egyptian Cross or “Cross of Life,” is one of the oldest symbols in human history, dating back over 5,000 years. It represents eternal life, immortality, divine protection, and the union of opposites (male and female, sky and earth). Egyptian gods are often depicted holding the Ankh, granting eternal life to pharaohs. Today, the Ankh is used in Egyptian-themed jewelry, tattoos, neo-pagan spirituality, and African heritage contexts.

Can I use cross symbols in my tattoo design?

Yes, cross symbols are among the most popular tattoo designs worldwide. Whether you want a simple Latin cross ✝, an ornate Celtic cross ☩, or a unique Orthodox cross ☦, you can use the symbols on this page as reference for your tattoo artist. Copy the symbol, paste it into a document or image editor, scale it up, and share it with your tattoo artist as a starting point for your custom design.

What does a cross necklace symbolize?

Wearing a cross necklace generally symbolizes Christian faith, devotion to Jesus Christ, or personal spirituality. For Christians, it’s a public expression of their religious identity and a reminder of God’s love. Some people wear crosses for family or cultural heritage reasons, even without strong religious beliefs. Cross necklaces can also be memorial pieces, honoring deceased loved ones. The specific style (plain cross, crucifix, Celtic, Orthodox) often reflects denominational or cultural background.

Is the cross a pagan symbol originally?

Cross-shaped symbols existed in many pre-Christian cultures, including Egyptian (Ankh), Celtic (sun cross), Norse, and various Native American traditions. However, the specific symbolism of the Christian cross — representing Jesus’s crucifixion — is uniquely Christian. While the cross shape itself appears in pre-Christian contexts, its meaning in those cultures was different (often solar, cosmic, or life-related). The Christian appropriation and reinterpretation of the cross shape began in the early centuries AD.

What does the Jerusalem Cross symbolize?

The Jerusalem Cross, also called the Crusader’s Cross, features one large Greek cross surrounded by four smaller crosses in each corner — totaling five crosses. The five crosses represent the five wounds of Christ during his crucifixion (two hands, two feet, and the spear wound in his side). It was the symbol of the Kingdom of Jerusalem during the Crusades (1099-1291) and today appears on the flag of the country of Georgia and in Christian pilgrimage contexts.

When did the cross become the symbol of Christianity?

The cross became Christianity’s primary symbol in the 4th century AD, after Emperor Constantine’s conversion to Christianity around 312 AD. Before that, early Christians primarily used the fish symbol (Ichthys) as their secret identifier during Roman persecution. Constantine claimed to see a vision of the cross before the Battle of Milvian Bridge in 312 AD, after which he embraced Christianity and made the cross a state-supported symbol. By the late 4th century, the cross had largely replaced earlier Christian symbols.

Explore More Symbol Collections

CoolSymbol.io offers thousands of symbols beyond crosses. Browse our other popular collections to find the perfect symbols for every occasion. Explore our Religious Symbols collection for faith symbols from all religions, Heart Symbols for love and devotion, Star Symbols for celestial designs, Aesthetic Symbols for Instagram bio decoration, Medical Symbols for healthcare icons, and Hebrew Symbols for Jewish religious symbols.