Valentine's Day: Check history, significance of day of love on February 14

A bunch of roses, handwritten notes, letters in the name of significant other, or chocolates – these things often come to mind whenever we hear of Valentine’s Day. It’s safe to say this is an important day for everyone who express love on this day for love. But, let’s dig into its significance and how February 14 came to known as Valentine’s Day.

Valentine’s Day falls every on February 14. The Valentine’s Week starts on February 7 and every day of the week holds a significance among lovers.

History of Valentine’s Day


As we know it or call it, it has different holiday origins. It has its roots in Christianity, as per History.com. Moreover, there were numerous Saint Valentines in the past and it is unclear on whose name the holiday is.

The first one was a priest in ancient Rome who defied Emperor Claudius II by secretly marrying young couples during a time when marriage was banned for young men. This defiance led to his execution.

Another Saint Valentine, St. Valentine of Terni, was a bishop who was beheaded by Emperor Claudius and is considered by many to be the true inspiration for the holiday.

There are also several other legends associated with St. Valentine, including one story of an imprisoned Valentine who fell in love with a young girl who visited him. Before his death, it is said that Valentine wrote a letter to her and signed it "From your Valentine." This is considered to be the first Valentine's Day greeting. Although its true story is known, many consider the saint to be a brave, humble and romantic person.

Day for Love

The unclear history may upset many, but nevertheless, February 14 is known as a day for love. Valentine's Day also has roots in the Middle Ages when it was believed that the day marked the beginning of birds' mating season.

The pagan celebration of Lupercalia, which took place on February 15th and was dedicated to the Roman god of agriculture, Faunus, and the founders of Rome, Romulus and Remus, was also a factor in the holiday's evolution. During the festival, priests would sacrifice animals for fertility and purification, and women would be smeared with the blood in a belief that it would make them more fertile the following year.

FAQs:

1. What was the first literature reference to Valentine’s Day?
   Geoffrey Chaucer’s “Parliament of Foules”. It was published in 1375.
2. When did exchanging gifts or cards became a thing on Valentine’s Day?
   By 18th century.