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Brighid's cross or (in the Irish language) Cros Bríde, Crosóg Bríde or Bogha Bríde, though not recorded before the seventeenth century, is an Irish symbol that possibly derives from the pagan sunwheel. It is usually made from rushes or, less often, straw. It contains a woven square in the centre and four radials tied at the ends.


Many rituals are associated with the making of the crosses. These were formerly commonplace but are now rare. Occasionally Roman Catholic homes still feature Brigid's crosses, especially in rural areas. It was traditionally believed that a Brigid's Cross protects the house from fire and evil.

Brigid's crosses are associated with Brigid of Kildare, who is venerated as one of the patron saints of Ireland. The crosses are traditionally made on 1 February, which in the Irish language is called Lá Fhéile Bhríde (Brigid's feast day), the day of her liturgical celebration. This feast co-incides with the more ancient one of her pagan namesake, Ireland's most important Goddess, Brigid, who is associated with fire; it signifies the beginning of Spring, and is called Imbolc.