triskelions

A triskelion, also spelled triskele, is a symbol consisting of three radiating arms or legs connected at a central point. The three elements may be depicted as rigid legs arranged in a tripod, or as spiral or curved arms. In either form, the motif emphasizes triadic balance and movement.

Historically, the triskelion and related triskele forms appear in a variety of ancient cultures across Europe and the Mediterranean. In Celtic art, the triskele is a common decorative motif; triple spirals are found in Neolithic Malta and other megalithic contexts. In the modern world, two well-known uses are the flag of the Isle of Man, which features three armored legs joined at the knee, and the Sicilian trinacria, a three-legged emblem radiating from a central Medusa head.

Meaning and interpretation of the symbol are not fixed. The triadic structure has been associated with motion and cycles, such as life-death-rebirth, the three domains of earth, sea, and sky, or the triune nature of mind, body, and spirit. It has also been linked to the idea of a triple goddess in various folkloric and neopagan frameworks, reflecting a sense of unity among three interconnected forces.

In contemporary contexts, the triskelion/triskele appears in heraldry, insignia, jewelry, and decorative art. It is used in some municipal emblems, corporate logos, and neopagan or spiritual symbolism, where it is valued for its dynamic, balancing connotations as well as its historical and cultural associations.