The origin of Valentines Day is shrouded in mystery. There are many legends, stories and probably a few myths thrown in for good measure. Was this tradition based on early Christian saints? Or could it have been poetry from the middle ages? How about ancient Roman festivals? Or was it a combination? You may have to decide for yourself. Here are some interesting tales to think about.
Lupercalia was an ancient festival near the city of Rome. It was originally held by shipyards to honor Lupercus, a fertility god around February 13-15. This festival lasted well into Christian times before it was abolished by Pope Gelasius near the end of the 5th century.
During the reign of Claudius II, Emperor of Rome, several wars were being fought. Many men however failed to join the army. Claudius felt their wives and families were the cause, so he banned both marriages and engagements. At the time, a priest named Valentines married couples in spite of the ban. When Valentine was discovered he was put to death, and afterwards, named a Saint.
The oldest valentine still in existence is housed in the manuscript collection in the British Library in London England. It was written by Charles, the Duke of Orleans to his wife. He had been captured at the Battle of Agincourt and was being held in the Tower of London.
In much of South America, Love and Friendship day is quite popular and celebrated on February 14th. While it’s somewhat similar to the U.S. celebration, people also perform acts of appreciation for their friends. In Brazil, however, June 12th is Boyfriends/Girlfriends day. Couples exchange gifts, chocolates, cards and flower bouquets.
Valentine’s Day in both Denmark and Norway is celebrated on February 14th and called Valentinsdag. But the traditions are much less commercial. Valentine traditions in these countries center on having a quiet romantic dinner with their partner or sending a card or a rose to a loved one.
In Iran February 17th is a day for love and called Sepandarmazgan. This day is celebrated much like it is in the West in spice of some governmental restrictions. Younger Iranian boys and girls often buy gifts and celebrate the tradition.
The practice of sending Valentine cards existed in the middle 1800’s. Esther Howland, whose father owned a stationary and book store, received an English valentine card. As a result, she was inspired to create her own of embossed lace which was then mass produced. Shortly thereafter, Valentine’s Day became a popular national holiday.
The second half of the 20th century witnessed an expansion of the Valentine’s Day traditions. Gifts, primarily cards, expanded to flowers and candy. Popular Valentine’s Day gifts now include roses and chocolates, often in a red heart-shaped box.
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