Where does it actually come from, this Valentine’s Day?
A romantic day like Valentine’s Day has its origins with the Italians, of course. Even if some claim it is an invention of florists or chocolate makers.
Originally, Valentine’s Day was the commemoration day for Bishop Valentine of Terni, who lived in the 3rd century and around whom there are many legends. It is said that Valentine, who was later canonised, married soldiers, although this was forbidden at the time. Other stories say that he gave flowers from his garden to lovers. He is even said to have miraculous healing powers. In any case, romantic love is celebrated on his memorial day, 14 February. This custom developed as early as the 14th century.
This can even be proven. The British writer Geoffrey Chaucer wrote a poem called “The Parliament of Fowls” in which we read that Valentine’s Day was celebrated as the day of lovers.
In the Middle Ages, it was believed that a woman would marry the first man she saw on Valentine’s Day. It was therefore the custom among men to give their beloved a bouquet of flowers as early as possible in the morning on Valentine’s Day.
Another theory about the origin of Valentine’s Day is that the mating season of birds begins in mid-February and spring is approaching. Falling in love and springtime feelings were transferred to human customs and symbolically 14 February, i.e. Valentine’s Day, was chosen to mark the beginning of this period.
In fact, there’s already a bit of spring in the air, don’t you think?
In any case, we wish you “Happy Valentine” for today.
