Valentine’s Day, celebrated every year on 14 February, is one of the most popular holidays in the world, dedicated to love and friendship. But where does this tradition come from, and how has it evolved over the centuries to become what we know today? The history of Valentine’s Day is fascinating, combining myths, religious stories and popular customs.
I - Religious origins
Valentine’s Day dates back to Roman antiquity. It is often attributed to Saint Valentine, a third-century Christian priest. According to legend, the Roman emperor Claudius II had banned marriages for young men, believing that unmarried soldiers were stronger and more loyal. However, Saint Valentine, believing that this order went against Christian principles, continued to marry couples in secret. When the emperor learned of his actions, he ordered Valentine’s execution, and he was martyred on 14 February around the year 269. Saint Valentine thus became a symbol of resistance and true love.
There are also other saints named Valentine, but the most popular version is that of the martyred priest.
II - Pagan roots: the Lupercalia
Some historians believe that Valentine’s Day has links with pagan festivities that took place in February, in particular the Lupercalia, a Roman festival dedicated to Lupercus, the god of fertility and nature. During these festivities, animal sacrifices were performed, and young men and women drew lots to choose their partners for a day of dancing and celebration. Although the Lupercalia were not directly linked to romantic love, they did emphasise elements such as fertility and union, themes that are found in the modern celebration of Valentine’s Day.
III - The Middle Ages: Valentine's Day becomes a celebration of love
It was only in the Middle Ages, with the influence of literature and poets, that Valentine’s Day was truly transformed into a festival dedicated to romantic love. In the 14th century, the poet Geoffrey Chaucer, in his poem Parliament of the Birds, mentions 14 February as the day when birds choose a mate. This link between nature and love reinforced the idea that this date should be a celebration of the feelings of love.
The tradition of exchanging letters and gifts also developed at this time, particularly in England and France. Young couples began to exchange cards and poems, reinforcing the idea that Valentine’s Day was a celebration of love and tenderness.
IV - Valentine's Day in the modern world
Today, Valentine’s Day is widely celebrated in many countries, far beyond its Christian or pagan roots. Couples exchange cards, flowers mainly red roses and gifts such as chocolates and jewellery to show their affection. As well as lovers, the festival also includes friends, who exchange messages of affection and friendship. In many cultures, schools and workplaces organise activities to celebrate human relationships in all their forms.
Although some see the holiday as a commercial celebration, Valentine’s Day remains for many a way of celebrating love, friendship and human bonds in general.
Valentine’s Day, with its Christian and pagan roots, has evolved over the centuries to become the celebration of love that we know today. Whether celebrated by lovers or friends, this day is a reminder of the importance of cultivating human relationships and cherishing those we love. It’s also the ideal occasion to give gifts to those who mean something to us, and what could be better than a money transfer with TRANSFERGRATIS?
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