Who is Saint Valentine and Why Do We Celebrate Him?

When February rolls around, we all know what that means: red roses, heart-shaped chocolates, and countless declarations of love. But, have you ever stopped to wonder, “Why is Valentine's Day celebrated?”

Who is Saint Valentine, after all, and how did his story become the inspiration behind one of the most romantic days of the year? 

Together, let’s uncover the origin of Valentine's Day and enjoy the captivating tale of Saint Valentine, a Roman priest whose relentless acts of love and defiance left an indelible mark on history.

Who is Saint Valentine?

Saint Valentine, also known as Valentinus, was a Roman priest who lived during the third century under the rule of Emperor Claudius II. 

This was a time when the Roman Empire was at its peak but also facing numerous challenges, particularly in maintaining its military prowess. 

Claudius II, convinced that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, issued a decree forbidding young men from marrying.

Valentine, however, saw the injustice in this law. He believed in love and the sanctity of marriage and began secretly performing marriage ceremonies for young couples. His actions were not only an act of defiance against the emperor, but also a testament to his belief in the power of love.

The Arrest and Martyrdom of Saint Valentine

Valentine's secret activities did not go unnoticed for long. Once his defiance was discovered, he was arrested and brought before Emperor Claudius II. 

The emperor, intrigued by Valentine’s convictions, initially attempted to persuade him to abandon his faith and allegiance to love. However, Valentine remained steadfast.

Legend has it that, while imprisoned, Valentine befriended the jailer's daughter, a young woman who was blind. Through his prayers and unwavering faith, her sight was miraculously restored. 

Before his execution on February 14th, 269 AD, Valentine is said to have written her a heartfelt note signed, "From your Valentine," a phrase that endures to this day.

Why is Valentine's Day Celebrated?

The story of Saint Valentine spread far and wide, and his martyrdom was commemorated annually. But, why is Valentine's Day celebrated on February 14th? 

This date was chosen to honor the anniversary of Valentine’s death and his ultimate sacrifice for love. Over time, the day evolved into a celebration of romance, with Saint Valentine becoming the patron saint of lovers.

Interestingly, some historians believe that the Christian church may have placed Saint Valentine's feast day in mid-February to overshadow and replace the pagan festival of Lupercalia. 

Lupercalia, celebrated from February 13th to 15th, was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, and Romulus and Remus – the legendary founders of Rome. Regardless of its origins, Valentine's Day has become synonymous with expressions of love and affection.

What is a Valentine?

In modern times, the term "Valentine" has come to mean a card, message, or gift sent to someone you love or admire, especially on February 14th.

But, what is a Valentine in the historical sense? The word itself is derived from Saint Valentine’s name, symbolizing love, devotion, and a willingness to defy the odds for the sake of love.

Exchanging Valentines became popular in the Middle Ages, particularly in England and France. Chaucer and Shakespeare romanticized the day in their works, further embedding it into popular culture. 

By the 18th century, it was common for friends and lovers to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes. With the advent of printed cards in the 19th century, the tradition of sending Valentines became even more widespread.

The Evolution of Valentine's Day Traditions

From its humble beginnings, rooted in the Saint Valentine story, Valentine's Day has transformed into a global phenomenon. Today, it’s celebrated in a variety of ways, from romantic dinners and elaborate gifts to heartfelt cards and bouquets of flowers. We even have the advent of Galentine’s Day, a day to celebrate the ladies in your life. 

Still, one of the most enduring symbols of Valentine's Day is the heart, representing love and affection. The tradition of giving roses, particularly red ones, is linked to the belief that the red rose was the favorite flower of Venus, the Roman goddess of love.

Another beloved tradition is the exchange of chocolates. The connection between chocolate and love dates back to the Aztecs, who considered cocoa beans a gift from the gods and a powerful aphrodisiac. 

In the 19th century, Richard Cadbury, a British chocolatier, created the first heart-shaped box of chocolates specifically for Valentine's Day, solidifying the link between chocolate and romance.

The Enduring Legacy of Saint Valentine

If you ever meet someone who’s wondering about Saint Valentine's story, you'll now have a tale of romance, bravery, and timeless devotion on your hands. As you exchange your Valentines, be sure to remember the humble Roman priest whose sacrifices made this day of love possible. 

For more ways to fill this day – and all the days of the year – with magic and wonder, keep coming back for more ideas. We’re here to help you celebrate the joy of living, whether it’s with your Valentine, Galentine, or the person who matters most – you.