Valentine's Day Origins

by Lília

This year, we wanted to explore the history of Valentine’s Day. I initially thought it was more of a commercial idea invented by Hallmark in recent decades. I was very surprised to discover that it is actually linked to probable historical events, and that its history is a lot older than I expected.

So why do we celebrate romantic love on February 14^th? What are its origins? They are certainly not in commercializing love, but in celebrating it in all its forms.

Depending on the source of information about this day, it may be that it originated as a Christian feast day honoring many martyrs named Valentine, or that it was originally a pagan celebration of spring known as Lupercalia, which was later prohibited by the Pope.

Other stories tell about a certain Saint Valentine, who secretly officiated many weddings in a period when soldiers were not allowed to marry, and when found out, was killed on February 14^th, making the date a symbol of love and resistance. Or of Saint Valentine of Rome, imprisoned for ministering to people persecuted under the Roman Empire. All that would have happened in the 3^rd century, around 270 CE.

Later additions connect Saint Valentine to the theme of love, and around the more romanticized 14^th and 15^th centuries, it started being celebrated as a day of romantic love.

It took a few centuries for Valentine’s Day to become a more commercial demonstration of love. Around the 18^th century in Britain, people started sending cards, flowers, and presents to express their love. And it slowly developed into the enormous industry we have nowadays.

From its origins in the 3^rd century to this day, many different symbols have been added, with lovebirds signifying spring, but mostly hearts and roses for love and romance. Candies were also added to the mix and are one of the most popular gifts for loved ones.

Fortunately for us, people show their love in many ways, and books have also become a symbol of love and romance.