What is Valentine's Day?
St. Valentine's Day is the liturgical celebration of one or two early Christian saints named Valentinus. As the tradition of courtly love began flourishing in the High Middle Ages, the first romantic love became popular during the High Middle Ages. This day in 18th-century England, this day transformed into an event in which couples demonstrated their love for each other by delivering flowers, offering confectionery, and sending Valentine cards.
Ancient history
Who or what was celebrated in mid-February is uncertain. Mixed opinions prevail over who or what was commemorated. Some people are martyred saints by the name of Valentine or Valentinus.. According to the most popular tale, the saint defied a decree by Emperor Claudius II who outlawed marriage for young men because he believed single men were better soldiers. Young lovers would rather be married in secret than have them sneaking around (or believing in the power of love). However, it may have been another Valentine who conducted the marriages, not necessarily another Valentine. Both of them were liable for their conduct, but at least two of them were jailed for their conduct, according to either way.
Another possible origin for Valentine's Day takes us back to a pagan festival called Lupercalia. The Christian church held St. Valentine's Day in the middle of February as a way to discourage people from attending the fertility festival.
