Ancient spirals in Malta and Ireland represent deeply significant symbolic motifs found in prehistoric megalithic art.

Spirals in Malta

Spiral motifs are the most common designs in Malta's megalithic art, dated around 4400–3600 BCE. These spirals are often decorative and sometimes appear as "floral" spirals, distinct from single spirals found at other ancient sites. In Malta, spirals were likely connected to the goddess symbolism, representing concepts like birth, death, and regeneration. The spirals are abundant in temples and other prehistoric sites, emphasizing their spiritual and ritual importance in ancient Maltese culture.

Spirals in Ireland

In Ireland, particularly at the Newgrange passage tomb (circa 3200 BCE), spirals are carved into stones and are among the most famous Neolithic motifs. The triple spiral or "triskele" is a key symbol, often interpreted as representing the cycle of birth, life, and death, or man, woman, and child. Newgrange is aligned with the winter solstice sunrise, which illuminates these spiral carvings, highlighting their astronomical and ceremonial significance. The spirals also appear on kerbstones at the entrance, underscoring their importance in the cultural and spiritual life of ancient Ireland.

Both Malta and Ireland share the use of spiral motifs as powerful symbols in their prehistoric cultures, with connections to cycles of life and nature, goddess worship, and astronomical alignments. Despite geographical distance, these spirals signify deep symbolic meanings related to eternity and regeneration in ancient spiritual practices.