Cross form

Cross of Saint Peter (inverted cross)

Also: Petrine cross · inverted Latin cross

Drawing under review. New Atlas drawing (22 October 2026) of the documented form; it awaits review.

Form

A Latin cross upside down, with the crossbar near the foot.

When it is documented

The tradition behind it is early: Eusebius (c. 325) reports Origen’s statement that Peter was crucified head-downwards at his own request.

Context

In Christian tradition it recalls the manner of Peter’s death. In modern popular culture it is often used as an anti-Christian sign; that later use does not change its traditional meaning.

Links in the Atlas

Traditionally linked to Saint Peter (Saint)
From the tradition of his crucifixion head-downwards (Origen, reported by Eusebius); no eyewitness account.

Sources and how they were checked

Eusebius, Ecclesiastical History III.1, citing Origen: Peter “was crucified head-downwards; for he had requested that he might suffer in this way.”
Catholic Answers, “The Upside-Down Cross: Satanic or Symbolic?”, quoting Eusebius · checked 2026-10-21 (secondary quotation; Eusebius’s text not inspected)
Crossbar near the foot; modern anti-Christian use.
Wikipedia, “Christian cross variants” — Cross of Saint Peter · checked 2026-10-21 (tertiary reference)