Valentine’s Day began as St. Valentine’s Day, a liturgical celebration of one or more early Christian saints name Valentinus. February 14th Valentine’s Day first became associated with romantic love during the High Middle Ages as the tradition of courtly love was then flourishing. During 18th century England, this day evolved into an occasion in which lovers expressed their love for each other by presenting flowers, offering confectionery and sending valentine cards.
HOW TO OBSERVE
Get something special for your valentine and use #Valentine’sDay to post on social media.
HISTORY
Credit is traditionally given to Pope Gelasius for declaring February 14 as Saint Valentine’s Day around the year 496 to separate the church from the Roman celebration of Lupercalia, an ancient pagan fertility celebration which occurred on February 15th.
Every February 14, across the United States and in other places around the world, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint, and where did these traditions come from? Find out about the history of this centuries-old holiday, from ancient Roman rituals to the customs of Victorian England.
Video courtesy History Channel
