The History and Controversy of Valentine’s Day

On February 14, millions of people worldwide celebrate Valentine’s Day, an occasion dedicated to expressing love and affection through gifts, cards, and flowers, especially among couples and spouses.

Although widely associated with romance, this day has historical and religious origins and remains controversial in some societies that see it as a Western tradition incompatible with their culture.

Valentine’s Day dates back to ancient Rome. Some believe it originates from the Lupercalia festival, which honored fertility. However, the most common legend links it to Saint Valentine, a Christian priest who defied an imperial ban on young marriages and was executed on February 14, becoming a symbol of sacrifice for love.

The holiday is characterized by symbols such as red hearts, red roses, and romantic greeting cards. In modern times, chocolates and luxurious gifts have also become essential.

With the rise of social media, Valentine’s Day has gained even more prominence, as couples share pictures and heartfelt messages to express their emotions.

Despite its popularity, Valentine’s Day faces criticism from some cultures and communities that reject it for religious or social reasons. Others argue that it has become a purely commercial event, designed to boost sales of expensive gifts and flowers. In some countries, it is even banned or strictly regulated to minimize its societal impact.