Every holiday has its own story. Are you familiar with Valentine's Day, celebrated every February 14th? To tell the truth, its exact origin is a matter of debate.
One of them dates back to the Middle Ages. It was then that the Church decided to celebrate Valentine of Terni, a martyred priest of the Roman Empire. In the 3rd century, he had made a habit of organizing Christian weddings, then forbidden by Emperor Claudius II, who feared that men would become too attached to their wives. The celebration of these secret marriages led to the arrest of Valentin de Terni. He was then sentenced to death... on February 14th. It was in 495 that Pope Gelasius I decided to canonize him and designate him the patron saint of lovers.
Another origin, another story, this time pagan. Here too, we have to go back to ancient times, when the Romans celebrated Lupercus, the god of fertility and protector against wolves, from February 13 to 15, by staging the Lupercales in the streets of Rome. During this race, priests flogged female passers-by with leather thongs, hoping to ensure their fertility.
Another legend, another country, another time. In the 14th century, for the English, February 14th was the start of the mating season, when birds began to mate. From then on, lovers in love would declare their love by writing love poems to each other during this period. A custom that Charles d'Orléans, then imprisoned in England, decided to bring back to France in the 15th century.
Today, many people have decided to make the most of this holiday: pastry chefs, florists, perfumers... they're all bending over backwards to offer that little something extra that will make your loved one fall in love with you.
Valentine's Day 2025 in Paris: ideas for romantic outings not to be missed
Are you looking for a romantic Valentine's Day getaway in Paris and the Ile-de-France region? This Friday, February 14, 2025, we'll be revealing our romantic spots, ideas for walks, well-being getaways and gourmet spots! [Read more]
Valentine's Day in Paris is also an opportunity to take advantage of great deals that celebrate love, whether you're a couple or single. We take you on a tour of the free, romantic outings on the program for this February 14, 2025. [Read more]
Looking for a restaurant for Valentine's Day 2025? Original, romantic, gastronomic, with a beautiful view or as a dinner show, there's no shortage of ideas in Paris and the Ile-de-France region. Discover our selection for a great time with your soul mate! [Read more]
Valentine's Day 2025 in Paris: ideas for romantic outings not to be missed
Valentine's Day 2025 in Paris: free good deals for February 14, 2025
Valentine's Day 2025 at a restaurant in Paris: Our best addresses for a romantic meal
