Truths of Valentine’s Day: Discover the Origins, Meaning and Who Invented the Holiday of Love

Valentine’s Day is celebrated on February 14 and is usually associated with cards, flowers, and chocolate. But many people still ask who invented Valentine’s Day, and the true origin of the holiday goes back much further than modern romance.

People still ask who invented Valentine’s Day, but the truth is the holiday evolved over centuries through Roman tradition, Church history, and cultural change.

The Origins of Valentine’s Day

The origins of Valentine’s Day can be traced back to ancient Rome, specifically to a mid-February festival called Lupercalia. This festival was tied to fertility, agriculture, and the coming of spring.

Lupercalia looked nothing like Valentine’s Day today. Ancient Roman rituals were symbolic and intense, reflecting beliefs about renewal and fertility rather than romance.

How Saint Valentine Changed the Meaning

The Catholic Church later connected February 14 to Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr from the 3rd century. There were multiple martyrs named Valentine, but Saint Valentine of Rome became the most well-known.

According to legend, he secretly married couples at a time when marriage was restricted. His story is one reason the meaning of Valentine’s Day became associated with love, devotion, and commitment.

When Valentine’s Day Became a Romantic Holiday

The first Valentine’s Day cards appeared in the 15th century. By the 18th century, the holiday had spread widely and became a celebration of romantic love, gifts, and handwritten notes.

The Italian Biscotti Connection

Another tradition with roots in history is biscotti, also known as cantucci. These twice-baked Italian cookies were designed to last, making them easy to transport and perfect for sharing.

Learn more about Italian biscotti and why they have remained popular for centuries.

Valentine’s Day Idea: Bake Together

Baking together is one of the simplest and most romantic ways to spend Valentine’s Day. It slows things down and creates a shared experience you remember long after the day is over.

Chocolate Cherry Biscotti Recipe

What to expect: Crisp snap, rich chocolate, and sweet cherry pockets. Perfect with coffee or tea.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 3 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cherry extract
• 1/2 cup dried cherries
• 1 cup chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Whisk flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Cream butter and sugar. Add eggs and extracts.
4. Fold in dry ingredients, cherries, and chocolate.
5. Shape dough into logs and bake 25–30 minutes.
6. Slice and bake again 10–15 minutes until crisp.

Read Next

• What Is Biscotti? A Complete Guide
• Best Biscotti Flavors to Gift

References

History.com
Time.com