Valentines is a day that you either love or hate, usually depending on if you are in a relationship or not. For some it is filled with chocolates, teddy bears and date nights at fancy restaurants, and for others it is spent watching romance movies while swiping on Tinder. But overall, it is viewed as a day where love is in the air where couples get to appreciate one another, but that was not always the case. This is why we celebrate Valentine's day, dating back to the 3rd Century.
Who is Saint Valentine?
Believe or not, Saint Valentine is significant to the creation of Valentine's Day, hence the name. Saint Valentine was a Catholic Priest, who lived in Rome during the 3rd Century. During this time Emperor Claudius II ruled and he created strict rules that dictated how Christians lived their lives, and what they were allowed to do.
One of these laws prevented Roman soldiers from marrying, so St Valentine took it upon himself to marry these soldiers. This was done in secret Christian ceremonies and he was devoted to helping people celebrate true love. Sadly, he was later jailed for his crimes and was due to be executed. During the time that he was imprisoned he cared for the prisoners living amongst him, and it is said that he even cured the blindness of the jailor’s blind daughter. His last act of love was writing a love letter to the daughter, signing it off with ‘from your Valentine.’
The beginning of Valentine's Day
Around 200 years after the execution of Saint Valentines was 14th of February deemed as St Valentine's Day. This was because he was executed on the 14th of February in the year 270. Going forward, pagan fertility rituals were held in February, and the pope later proclaimed 14th of February Saint Valentine’s Day.
This day later spread throughout Europe due to the beginning of a tradition of love, where stories about a High Court of Love were spread where female judges would rule on issues related to love on this special day. That being said, people believe that these meetings were actually groups reading love poetry and playing flirtatious games.
Valentines day in 2023
Now in 2023, the holiday is celebrated globally and is deemed as a day where people in love around the world showcase their love for one another, usually through expensive acts of gift giving and celebration. This can be done through sending messages to one another, through cards and presents such as red roses.
If you are looking for some amazing gifts this Valentines day that are not only unique, but are sure to put a smile on your loved ones face, then look no further. From cross stitches that allow you to turn your love for someone into art, to marshmallow toasting kits that allow you to send your partner a heartfelt message, click here.
