Irish Harp

The first non-Celtic character in this guide is the harp. The Irish harp is the national emblem of Ireland and is still widely used today.

Look for it on Irish Euro coins and on the labels of every can and bottle of Guinness. The meaning of the Irish harp symbol represents the spirit and essence of the Irish people and is said to represent the immortality of the soul.

In fact, it was so revered that the British banned all harps (and harpers!) In the 16th century in an attempt to sever the symbolic link.

Needless to say, the Irish harp symbol has survived and is now one of the most famous Irish Celtic symbols alongside the Irish flag.