This symbol was first seen on coins in Syracuse and on the personal seal of the tyrent Agathocles. It derives from an ancient sun symbol, and the triangle shape represents the shape of the island of Sicily. Homer called Sicily, "Trinakie" of "the three cornered". Sicily is known in mythology as the place that Heilos, the sun grazed his cattle.

In the middle ages, the symbol was carved onto shields and swords of crusaders from Sicily and thus, the symbol was spread as far as Wales, where it was adopted by other warriors.

There are several other interpretations of this symbol. Some say, that at the center is the goddess Medusa, with her head surrounded by snakes. This is a reference the Sicily being a beautiful island who has been conquered numerous times. The implication is that lthough Sicily is beautiful, do not tread on her without danger. The three legs of the Triskele or Trinacria, as it is sometimes called, are said to represent the symbol of life - birth, life, and rebirth.

Others say that the face of Medusa, at the center, represents Enna, the navel or center of Sicily, which is in the middle of the triangle shapped island.