Valentine's Day is a holiday celebrated mainly in the Americas and Europe. It is the traditional day on which lovers express their love for each other by sending Valentine's cards and gifts.

Where does Valentine's Day come from?
The story of Saint Valentine tells of a Christian priest named Valentine. The Roman Emperor had ordered all young men to remain single, believing it would make him a stronger army. The priest Valentine however defied the emperor by performing secret marriage ceremonies, breaking the law. When the emperor found out he threw priest Valentine in jail and sentenced him to death.

In the days before his execution, the couples he had helped would leave him little notes to say 'thank you', hidden in cracks and rocks around his cell.

Celebrating Valentine's Day.
Since the 19th Century, handwritten notes have been replaced by mass produced greetings cards.

In the second half of the 20th century the practice of exchanging cards has been extended to all manner of gifts including roses, chocolates and jewelry.

Common symbols of St. Valentine's Day are love hearts, angels, cherubs and roses.

Back to celebrations