Valentine's Day is celebrated every year on February 14 with grand gestures as the fundamental symbol of love and affection all over the world. But do we actually know the true story of this day we celebrate?
ITS ROOTS DATE BACK TO ANCIENT ROME
To understand Valentine's Day, we actually need to look back at the days of the Ancient Roman Empire. Because the history of Valentine's Day dates back to Ancient Rome.
According to historical sources, Valentine's Day emerged as a day dedicated to Saint Valentine. Roman Emperor Claudius II had banned soldiers from marrying, citing that married soldiers were less motivated on the battlefield. However, the Catholic priest Valentine continued to secretly marry couples who loved each other despite this ban.
LOVE, BANS, AND EXECUTION
Upon the discovery of this situation, Claudius II ordered Valentine's arrest and execution. During his imprisonment, Valentine taught religious knowledge to Julia, the blind daughter of the jailer Asterius, and developed feelings for her. According to legend, before his execution, he left a letter for Julia signed "From your Valentine," and this event laid the foundations of Valentine's Day.
With the death of Saint Valentine, the Christian world elevated him to sainthood, and February 14 began to be commemorated as Valentine's Day. However, these accounts are not fully verified by definitive historical sources and have survived to the present day as a legend.
Today, Valentine's Day is accepted as a special day celebrated worldwide for love and affection.
News Source: 12punto
