Description

A short course on the History of Valentine’s Day, its origins and how Valentine’s Day is Celebrated Around the World On February 14th, people come together to celebrate Valentine’s Day, also referred to as Saint Valentine’s Day. Love and affection permeate the air on this day, as people come together to express their feelings towards loved ones, friends, and family. The exchange of romantic gestures is a common tradition on this special day, with couples sending greeting cards, fragrant flowers, delectable chocolates, and heartfelt gifts.

The Theories or origins of Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is believed to have been named after Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr who lived during the 3rd century. However, the exact origins of the holiday are shrouded in mystery and there are various theories regarding its true origin. One popular legend suggests that Saint Valentine was a Roman priest who secretly performed marriages for soldiers, despite the Emperor’s ban on marriage. A legend claims that Saint Valentine sent the first Valentine’s greeting while imprisoned, signing it “From your Valentine.”

Another theory suggests that Valentine’s Day originated from the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, which was held in mid-February. Lupercalia was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture. During this festival, young men would draw names of young women from a box, and they would be partnered for the duration of the festival. This pairing often led to marriage.