The Story of St. Valentine

Do you know the history of Valentine's Day and why we associate Valentine with romance ? The history of Valentine's Day itself is shrouded in mystery, but it is derived from a holy man named St. Valentine, a priest who lived on the third century in Rome.

At that time Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, so he outlawed marriage for young men - his crop of potential soldiers. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine's actions were discovered, Claudius became very angry and ordered to put him in prison and gave him death sentence.

While in prison, it is believed that Valentine fell in love with a young girl, who may have been his jailor's daughter, who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter, which he signed 'From your Valentine.' This romantic story touched many people and inspired us to use "Valentine" expression for our dearest ones until now.

At around 498 A.D. Pope Gelasius declared February 14 as St. Valentine's Day. Later, during the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds' mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of February, Valentine's Day, should be a day for romance.

The idea of Valentine's Day widely spread across United States and Europe since the 1500's. While Asian countries just recently started to celebrate this romantic day. In Indonesia this day is also very popular, especially among young people. We adopt western way to celebrate Valentine's Day by sending cards, chocolate, or other gifts for our loved ones.

- Back to Valentine's Day Menu -

- Back to Holiday Land -                                                     - Back to Our Home -

Page created: Feb 7, 2004

Last updated: Feb 7, 2004

Information is from Historychannel.

Graphics are from Graphics by Grace.