The Celtic cross is a symbol of both culture and faith. The true origins of the Celtic cross are unknown but there are many theories and legends.
Two cultures combined to form the cross
One Christian legend says that the first Celtic cross was formed by St. Patrick while bringing Christianity to the Druids. The Druids used to worship a large circular stone. St Patrick, on seeing the significance of the stone, drew a large cross through the middle of it in order to bless it.
From this act, the two cultures combined to form the Celtic cross. The cross represents Christianity and the circle is the Celtic representation of eternity, no beginning and no end.
Predates Christianity
However, there are many different meanings surrounding the Celtic cross. One suggests that the cross represents the four directions of the compass and/or the four seasons and/or the four elements!
During the Bronze Age a representation of a four-spoked wheel was often worn as jewellery, it was known as the Sun Cross. The two symbols are very similar, which suggests the Sun Cross may have evolved into the Celtic cross over time.