We all know that February has long been a month of romance when candy, flowers, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones. However, the true history of Valentine's Day -- and the saint for whom the day is named --is surrounded with legends and remains a mystery.
Who was this mysterious saint, and why do we celebrate this holiday?
One story suggests that the good Saint Valentine was a Roman priest who served during the third century in Rome in the days of Claudius II. One of Valentine's responsibilities was to perform marriages.
Under the rule of Emperor Claudius II, Rome was involved in many bloody and unpopular campaigns. Because of this, Claudius was having a difficult time getting soldiers to join his military leagues. He believed that the reason for this was that married Roman men did not want to leave their wives and families. So, Claudius canceled all marriages and engagements in Rome.
However, Saint Valentine was not happy with Claudius's decree, so, because Valentine continued to marry young couples even after Claudius forbade it, he was killed (beheaded, actually) by the cruel Emperor. The date of his execution is believed to be February 14, 270 A.D.
But that's not the end of the St. Valentine legend. It is also said while Valentine was in jail awaiting execution, he was sent little notes and flowers from the children whom he had helped when they were sick. This also may have been one of the reasons why he sent a farewell note to the jailers' daughter. The message was signed, "Love from your Valentine". Perhaps this is why we send Valentines gifts today.
Some people believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated on that day in February to remember the anniversary of Valentine's death.
Although no one knows the true Valentine's Day history, we do recognize February 14 as the date for exchanging symbols of love, and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. We celebrate the day by sending simple gifts such as flowers, chocolates, cards, and poems focused on love. Thus, the legend of St. Valentine continues.
Who was this mysterious saint, and why do we celebrate this holiday?
One story suggests that the good Saint Valentine was a Roman priest who served during the third century in Rome in the days of Claudius II. One of Valentine's responsibilities was to perform marriages.
Under the rule of Emperor Claudius II, Rome was involved in many bloody and unpopular campaigns. Because of this, Claudius was having a difficult time getting soldiers to join his military leagues. He believed that the reason for this was that married Roman men did not want to leave their wives and families. So, Claudius canceled all marriages and engagements in Rome.
However, Saint Valentine was not happy with Claudius's decree, so, because Valentine continued to marry young couples even after Claudius forbade it, he was killed (beheaded, actually) by the cruel Emperor. The date of his execution is believed to be February 14, 270 A.D.
But that's not the end of the St. Valentine legend. It is also said while Valentine was in jail awaiting execution, he was sent little notes and flowers from the children whom he had helped when they were sick. This also may have been one of the reasons why he sent a farewell note to the jailers' daughter. The message was signed, "Love from your Valentine". Perhaps this is why we send Valentines gifts today.
Some people believe that Valentine's Day is celebrated on that day in February to remember the anniversary of Valentine's death.
Although no one knows the true Valentine's Day history, we do recognize February 14 as the date for exchanging symbols of love, and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers. We celebrate the day by sending simple gifts such as flowers, chocolates, cards, and poems focused on love. Thus, the legend of St. Valentine continues.
About the Author:
Joanne Michaels is a renowned authority on Valentine's Day and Valentines flowers. Lowest prices ever on Valentines flowers. Grab yours now while they last at: Valentine's Day History.
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