Legends and history
The history of Valentine's Day is shrouded in mystery and myths. One of the most popular versions connects it with the Roman priest Valentine, who lived in the III century A.D. At that time, Emperor Claudius II forbade young men to marry, believing that family ties prevented them from being good soldiers. But Valentine secretly married lovers, for which he was arrested and executed on February 14 around 269 AD.
Another legend says that Valentine, while in prison, fell in love with the jailer's daughter and before his death wrote a letter to her, signing it “Your Valentine” - hence the tradition of signing postcards in this way.
Connection to ancient rituals
Some historians believe that Valentine's Day is connected with the ancient Roman holiday Lupercalia, which was celebrated on February 15. On this day, rituals were performed in honor of the fertility gods, and young people held a kind of “love lottery”, choosing a couple for the holiday. Over time, with the spread of Christianity, this pagan holiday was transformed into the Christian Valentine's Day.
How the holiday became popular
Valentine's Day was officially recognized in the 5th century by Pope Gelasius I, but it gained real popularity in the Middle Ages, especially in England and France. The poet Geoffrey Chaucer in the fourteenth century first mentioned it as the day when birds choose a mate, which further strengthened the holiday's association with romance.
By the 18th century, it became a tradition in England to exchange handwritten love notes, and in the 19th century the first factory-made Valentine's cards appeared. Today, this holiday is celebrated in many countries, although traditions may vary.
Bottom line
Valentine's Day is not just a holiday, but a beautiful tradition that unites lovers from all over the world. Whether you believe in the legend of the priest Valentine or associate this day with ancient rituals, the main thing is that it is an occasion to remind your loved ones of your feelings. So don't forget to give some love on February 14!