Happy Valentine's Day!
Valentine’s Day is just a few days away, a day dedicated to LOVE. We celebrate Valentine’s Day by sharing chocolates, candy hearts, flowers and cards with that special someone to show them how much they mean to us. Did you ever ask yourself, how did Valentine’s Day come about? How is Valentine’s Day celebrated in other parts of the world?
The story of Valentine originates in Rome during and under the reign of the Roman Emperor Claudius II. A Roman priest named Valentine (or St. Valentine) performed Christian weddings for the Roman soldiers forbidden to marry. Under Emperor Claudius II, in an effort to grow his army, he forbade his Roman soldiers to marry. The Emperor believed that married men did not make good soldiers. In secret, the Roman priest, Valentine, married the soldiers and as a way for the soldiers to remember their wedding vows, St. Valentine cut out hearts made of parchment paper to serve as a reminder of their vows. It is also said, that St. Valentine wore a purple amethyst ring with the image of Cupid engraved in it, a recognized symbol associated with love. The Roman soldiers would recognize the ring and ask St. Valentine to perform a wedding. This priest became a Saint as he was martyred for performing these Christian marriages in pagan society.
Today Valentine’s Day is celebrated all around the world. Each country celebrates Valentine’s Day differently. For instance, in South Africa Valentine’s Day is celebrated with festivals, flowers and other tokens of love. It’s also customary for women in South Africa to wear their hearts on their sleeves on February 14th; women pin the names of their love interest on their shirtsleeves, an ancient Roman tradition known as Lupercalia. In some cases, this is how South African men learn of their secret admirers. (Valentine's Day traditions from around the world)
It is believed that the first Valentine’s Day card originated in Paris, France. Charles, the Duke of Orleans, sent love letters to his wife while imprisoned in the Tower of London in 1415. And signed the letters off “Your Valentine,” Today, Valentine’s Day cards remain a popular tradition in France and around the world.
Check out 10 ways other countries celebrate Valentine’s Day here:
Valentine's Day traditions around the world
9 Ways Love Is Celebrated Around the World
10 Valentine's Day traditions all around the world
Did you know that buying your significant other a tie on Valentine’s Day is also a very sweet gesture? The simple act of helping your loved one tie a tie is a very tender moment. And P.S. it looks great on both genders! Get yours today!
Happy Valentine’s Day!
As always, it’s great to hear from you and I look forward to connecting with you soon.
