Valentine’s Day occurs every February 14. Across the United States and in other places around the world, candy, flowers valentine’s day gift bag ideas gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St.

But who is this mysterious saint and where did these traditions come from? Find out about the meaning and history of Valentine’s Day, from the ancient Roman ritual of Lupercalia that welcomed spring to the card-giving customs of Victorian England. Saint Valentine, who according to some sources is actually two distinct historical characters who were said to have healed a child while imprisoned and executed by decapitation. Where did Valentine’s Day originate from?

The history of the holiday—and the story of its patron saint—is shrouded in mystery. We do know that February has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and that St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. But who was Saint Valentine, and how did he become associated with this ancient rite? READ MORE: Who Was the Real St. The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred.