The Italian origin of Valentine’s Day

February 12, 6:20 PMItalian Living ExaminerSerenella Leoni

Previous Next

Comment Print Email RSS Subscribe

Subscribe

Get alerts when there is a new article from the Italian Living Examiner. Read Examiner.com's terms of use.

Email Address   Include other special offers from Examiner.com Terms of Use

It is believed that Valentine’s Day can be traced back to Roman times during the reign of Emperor Claudius II in the 3rd century. Believing that single men would be more dedicated to their lives as soldiers, Claudius banned marriages for young men. Valentine (a Roman priest) found this law unjust (and un-Christian). The priest continued to marry couples in secret despite the Emperor’s decree. Valentine was ultimately discovered and Claudius condemned him to death.

Legend has it that Valentine actually sent the first Valentine's Day message: While in prison, Valentine fell in love with the jailer’s daughter who visited him regularly. The day he was executed (February 14), Valentine left a letter for her and signed it “From your Valentine” thus giving birth to this famous expression.

Love celebrations in mid-February can be traced back to pagan Roman festivals where naked men sacrificed animals then used the animal skins as whips to spank young maidens and increase their fertility. This celebration was called “Lupercalia” and was held on Febuary 15. It is believed that the Roman Empire later converted this festival to a Christian holiday and named it for St. Valentine. After Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire, many pagan festivals were converted to Christian holidays.

National Geographic history of Valentine's Day

History Channel history of Valentine's Day

History Channel Valentine's Day History Video

More Italian Valentine articles:

Sensual Italian hot chocolate for your Valentine

Romantic and sexy Italian phrases for your special Valentine

Espresso your love for your special Valentine - Italian-style

For more info: serenella@toscanamia.biz
National Geographic history of Valentine's Day
History Channel Valentine's Day History Video