According to history, Valentine was a name of one of several martyred saints of ancient Rome. Of the Saint Valentine whose feast is on 14 February, nothing is known except his name and that he was buried at the Via Flaminia north of Rome on 14 February. It is even uncertain whether the feast of that day celebrates only one saint or two or more saints of the same name. The name "Valentine" means worthy and was popular in late antiquity. The official Roman Martyrology for 14 February mentions only one Saint Valentine.
Why does Valentine symbolize romantic love? When does it start symbolize that?
It all begins from the Legend Aurea of Jacobus. The very brief vita of St Valentine has him refusing to deny Christ. Before his head was cut off, this Valentine restored sight and hearing to the daughter of his jailer. Jacobus makes a play with the etymology of "Valentine", "as containing valor". Then, it was discovered about hearts and last notes signed "from your Valentine", as is sometimes suggested in modern works of sentimental piety. Legend of Valentine appears in the late ages in England and France, when the day of 14 February became associated with romantic love. 14 February becomes Valentine's Day.
Nowadays, history about Saint Valentine might not be known for people. But, it is good to know the history of this yearly event. Valentine's Day becomes a very popular day when people share love to each other. Many people exchange gifts, such as perfumes and fragrances, chocolates, flowers and many others.
