On February 14 we celebrate St. Valentine´s Day and not only as a day for lovers but as a day for love and friendship.  This holiday comes from the beginning of the Christian era.  Roman emperor Claudius II believed that married men were not good soldiers as they lacked dedication and efficiency and for this reason he banned marriage unless approved by him.  But as is usual in  these situations, there was someone willing to disobey this law.  He was a bishop called Valentine who in secret  married young couples.  When Cllaudius II found  out this treachery, he had him killed on February 14, 268 A.D.

February 14,  St. Valentine´s Day was made official in 1969 when it was registered in the Roman Catholic Calendar.  St. Valentine´s remains are buried in the St. Valentine Basilica in  Terni, Italy.

As a curious coincidence, the ancient Romans celebrated on February 15, the Day of Fertility or Lupercalia in honor of their god Lupercus.  Legends and traditions were invented through the years and possibly because of the closeness of the dates, welding both into one.

What cannot be denied is that February 14, St. Valentine´s Day is mainly for lovers.  It´s a nice tradition in which we give and receive cards, gifts and flowers to show our regard and love.

Congratulations to all lovers on this February 14, St. Valentine´s Day!