by Barbara Nuzum

Created on: February 07, 2009   Last Updated: February 28, 2009

The Ancient Roots of St. Valentine's Day

St. Valentine's Day, a day to celebrate true and eternal love, it's arrival anticipated by young couples in love as well as young-at-heart couples. Even school children celebrate the holiday, arriving at school the morning of February 14, clutching their Valentine's cards, happily anticipating a day of good-will and parties. But what does it all mean, and what is it that we celebrate? Who was St. Valentine, and what was the original reason that gave the holiday of St. Valentine's Day life?

Some of our reasons to celebrate the holiday undoubtedly have been lost in history's obscurity, but quite often the roots of legends and myths do find themselves embedded in truth. So let's embark on our journey through history and discover what is truth, probability and just plain fairy tale.

Lupercalia was an ancient Roman festival and was observed February 13 through February 15. It honored the god Lupercus, the god of the shepherds. His festival was to ensure fertility, health and purity. No romantic undertones have been attributed to Lupercus' festival, but then the Romans were a practical lot. After all, survival in ancient times could very easily depend on fertility, health and purity, not just of oneself, but mankind itself, and therefore ensure that Rome herself would survive.

In spite of the lack of romantic inclinations, ancient Romans always did know how to entertain in style, if not always tastefully, and this festival was no exception. It has been recorded that some of the aristocratic young men and sons of the upper social classes ran through the streets of Rome naked, lashing out at whoever might cross their path. Many of the noble women would purposefully stand in their way, since being struck by one of these young noblemen was said to protect the pregnant and cure the barren.

Lupercalia may have had it's origin in the rural areas surrounding ancient Rome, but it evolved into a strictly Roman festival. However, another festival called Juno Februa, "Juno the Purifier", was celebrated February 13 through February 14. This festival was linked to fertility, health and purity as well. Romans just extended their festival by one day.

It has been said that Lupercalia in ancient times had no romantic overtones, nor was the intent to celebrate romantic love. But there is one link that may bring romance to this festival. One must delve even further into history to uncover this possible link, although geographically we won't have to

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