The origin of Valentines Day is shrouded in mystery. There are many legends, stories and probably a few myths thrown in for good measure. Was this tradition based on early Christian saints? Or could it have been poetry from the middle ages? How about ancient Roman festivals? Or was it a combination? You may have to decide for yourself. Here are some interesting tales to think about.
An ancient pre-Roman festival, Lupercalia, was celebrated every year to honor Lupercus, a god of fertility. It was celebrated sometime between February 13-15 near the city of Rome. Originally a festival of shipyards, it lasted until the 5th century when Pope Gelasius abolished it.
Roman Emperor Claudius II was involved in several bloody campaigns and needed more soldiers. The men however, were reluctant to join. Claudius believed the problem was the men didn't want to leave their families and wives. Claudius cancelled all marriages and engagements as a result. Valentine, a local priest, continued to marry couples, however. Valentine's defiance was eventually discovered and he was put to death. Afterwards he was named a Saint.
The oldest valentine still in existence is housed in the manuscript collection in the British Library in London England. It was written by Charles, the Duke of Orleans to his wife. He had been captured at the Battle of Agincourt and was being held in the Tower of London.
Love and Friendship day is celebrated in much of South America. While similar to the Western Valentine's Day, it often includes acts of appreciation for friends. Boyfriends/Girlfriends day is celebrated in Brazil. Couples exchange gifts, flowers and chocolates on June 12th.
Valentinsdag is Valentine's Day in Norway and Denmark is celebrated on February 14th. The tradition is less commercial and more subdued than in the West. People in these countries focus on having a romantic dinner with their partner or sending a card or a red rose to their loved one.
Valentine's Day in Iran is still celebrated in spite of some government restrictions. The celebration is called Sepandarmazgan and is celebrated on February 17th. The tradition is becoming more common among younger Iranian girls and boys.
Valentine's Day cards were first mass produced in Worchester, Massachusetts. Esther Howland, daughter of the owner of a book and stationary store was inspired by an English valentine she received. The popularity of St. Valentine's Day increased rapidly shortly thereafter.
The second half of the 20th century witnessed an expansion of the Valentine's Day traditions. Gifts, primarily cards, expanded to flowers and candy. Popular Valentine's Day gifts now include roses and chocolates, often in a red heart-shaped box. - 16463
An ancient pre-Roman festival, Lupercalia, was celebrated every year to honor Lupercus, a god of fertility. It was celebrated sometime between February 13-15 near the city of Rome. Originally a festival of shipyards, it lasted until the 5th century when Pope Gelasius abolished it.
Roman Emperor Claudius II was involved in several bloody campaigns and needed more soldiers. The men however, were reluctant to join. Claudius believed the problem was the men didn't want to leave their families and wives. Claudius cancelled all marriages and engagements as a result. Valentine, a local priest, continued to marry couples, however. Valentine's defiance was eventually discovered and he was put to death. Afterwards he was named a Saint.
The oldest valentine still in existence is housed in the manuscript collection in the British Library in London England. It was written by Charles, the Duke of Orleans to his wife. He had been captured at the Battle of Agincourt and was being held in the Tower of London.
Love and Friendship day is celebrated in much of South America. While similar to the Western Valentine's Day, it often includes acts of appreciation for friends. Boyfriends/Girlfriends day is celebrated in Brazil. Couples exchange gifts, flowers and chocolates on June 12th.
Valentinsdag is Valentine's Day in Norway and Denmark is celebrated on February 14th. The tradition is less commercial and more subdued than in the West. People in these countries focus on having a romantic dinner with their partner or sending a card or a red rose to their loved one.
Valentine's Day in Iran is still celebrated in spite of some government restrictions. The celebration is called Sepandarmazgan and is celebrated on February 17th. The tradition is becoming more common among younger Iranian girls and boys.
Valentine's Day cards were first mass produced in Worchester, Massachusetts. Esther Howland, daughter of the owner of a book and stationary store was inspired by an English valentine she received. The popularity of St. Valentine's Day increased rapidly shortly thereafter.
The second half of the 20th century witnessed an expansion of the Valentine's Day traditions. Gifts, primarily cards, expanded to flowers and candy. Popular Valentine's Day gifts now include roses and chocolates, often in a red heart-shaped box. - 16463
About the Author:
Valentine flower delivery to Tampa, Florida. A-Bow-K Florist & Gifts can deliver fresh flowers and gifts to those you care about in Tampa and neighboring communities. Be sure to order early.
