february2016

Every February 14, across the United States and in other places around the world, candy, flow-

ers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this

mysterious saint, and where did these traditions come from? Find out about the history of this

centuries-old holiday, from ancient Roman rituals to the customs of Victorian England.

THE LEGEND OF ST. VALENTINE

he history of Valentine’s Day–and the story of its patron

saint–is shrouded in mystery. We do know that Febru-

ary has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and that

St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of

both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. But who was Saint

Valentine, and how did he become associated with this ancient

rite?

The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints

named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.

One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served

during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II

decided that single men made better soldiers than those with

wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men.

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 ordered

SEXY GLAM

MAGAZINE - FEBRUARY 2016