Which Astrological Signs Are The Most Romantically Compatible?

For thousands of years astrologers have studied the stars in relation to our lives and individual destinies, and many members of the royal court and upper classes looked to astrology as a guiding tool for selecting the best matrimonial prospects.

While most of us no longer chart our relationships quite so strictly, it's worth noting the historically compatible partnerships among the twelve astrological signs.

Aries (March 21-April 19)

The fiery Aries is the youngest of the astrological signs, and embodies all the notable (and sometimes notorious) elements of youth. Impatient, energetic, and eager to take an active part in the world, the ram needs a lover who can keep up with–if not surpass–their full-speed-ahead pace. For that reason astrological signs on the younger side of the zodiac spectrum, such as the quick and clever Gemini and fellow fire sign Leo, are ideal partners.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

The steadfast and luxury-loving bull marches to the beat of their own timely drum, and is not one to be hurried through any phase of life or decision-making. Sensitive to the needs of others but equally stubborn when it comes to defending themselves, Taureans enjoy a more traditional relationship based on solid values and a mutual appreciation for the finer things in life. Fellow Venus-ruled Libra is a match made in heaven for Taurus, with sensible Virgo not far behind.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Symbolized by the twins, Gemini is often accused of being two people in one, demanding a certain degree of fluidity in a potential partner. Intellectually driven and seldom content to sit still for long, the blink-and-you'll-miss-them Gemini is always on the go. The similarly motivated Aries, as well as the confident and levelheaded Capricorn, are sure to keep pace with this sprightly sign.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

The shy and sensitive crab takes great comfort in the home he or she creates, and is highly selective about who they invite into their sacred space. To share a Cancer's nest one must respect boundaries as well as appreciate Cancer's nurturing nature, which is often contradicted by Cancer's frequent need to be alone. Traditionally successful partners include thoughtful Virgo and fellow water sign Pisces, as well as independent Aquarius.

Leo (July 23-August 22)

These lions were born to be stars, and won't share the spotlight with just anyone. Outgoing and fiercely loyal to their loved ones, Leo loves to bask in the adoration of others and likewise lavish it on romantic partners. No shrinking violet, the Leo is best suited to equally vibrant partners such as fellow fire signs Aries and Sagittarius, with charming Gemini and dreamy Pisces making for an irresistible chase but less enduring partnership.

Virgo (August 23-September 22)

Virgos are often overshadowed by the showier signs of the zodiac, but don't underestimate these grounded and goal-oriented individuals. “It's always the quiet ones” is a phrase that may well have been created with a Virgo in mind. Guarded about their private lives, Virgos prefer to keep their romance behind closed doors, and value discretion and grace in potential partners. Elegant Libra and sensitive Cancer are ideal partners for this earthy individual.

Libra (September 23-October 22)

Like their fellow Venus-ruled Taurus, Libra is a lover of all things bright and beautiful. Refined in their tastes and keenly adept at examining all sides of a discussion, Librans seek relationships in which the scales are in perfect balance where all matters of life are concerned. For that reason these signs fare well with the stylish and likewise intellectually sophisticated Aquarius and Capricorn, as well as the sensibly sensual Taurus.

Scorpio (October 23-November 21)

Intense and darkly sensual, a Scorpio lover is not for the faint of heart. These signs fall deeply and passionately for their partners, or not at all. Simply put, there's no in-between in the scorpion's world. Poetic Pisces tends to appreciate Scorpio's hypnotically dominating nature, while Scorpio's protectiveness of the delicate fish assures a touching balance. Similarly, the cool-headed Aquarius is able to temper Scorpio's frequent mood swings, while the charmingly elusive Gemini keeps the scorpion perpetually intrigued.

Sagittarius (November 22-December 21)

The fun-loving archer lives for adventure and stimulating experiences, and prefers the companionship of friends and partners with a shared penchant for action over stasis. Not one to settle down for long, Sagittarius is naturally inclined towards on-the-go signs like Aries and Gemini, with spotlight-stealing Leo giving them a delicious run for their money.

Capricorn (December 22-January 19)

Often characterized as strong and silent types, Capricorns have a no-nonsense approach to courtship until they feel secure, after which be prepared to be swept off your feet, literally and figuratively. Often drawn to equally mysterious–if slightly more ethereal–signs such as Pisces and Gemini, Capricorn also partners well with fellow earth signs with similar career and social goals. Open-minded in all things except disloyalty, once betrayed the Capricorn seldom looks back, so think twice before playing any games.

Aquarius (January 20-February 18)

Generally referred to as the thinkers of the zodiac, Aquarians are natural philosophers ruled more by their heads than hearts. Do not be deterred, however; once smitten the Aquarius will only have eyes for you. With their generally open and accepting personalities, arguments tend to be brief and viewed from all angles before being resolved. Fellow air signs Gemini and Libra make for the easiest and least dramatic pairings, while the level-headed and driven Capricorn offers the possibility of a “power duo” partnership.

Pisces (February 19-March 20)

The oldest in the astrological order, Pisces embodies all things spiritual and emotional, and is frequently accused of living with one foot (or fin) in the material world and the other in a whole other dimension. For this reason Pisceans can be doubly wounded by cruel or unfaithful lovers, and depend on the care and fidelity of signs able to defend and appreciate the fish's dreamier qualities. Sensually protective Scorpio and nurturing Cancer are natural matches, while the cerebral Aquarius, with their tolerance for eccentricity, give the fish space to dream without judgement.