Valentine’s Day is much darker than one would expect.
The holiday is believed to have found its origins from the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia; an annual celebration held on Feb. 15, celebrating fertility and purification, according to History.com.
However, the event itself was filled with blood and violence, including animal sacrifice.
Eventually, the holiday would become associated with romance as a result of Saint Valentine, who was known for spreading love and kindness.
The most common legend suggests that Valentine was a Roman priest during the 3rd Century, imprisoned and executed by Emperor Claudius II on Feb. 14 for performing secret marriages between young couples, according to History.com.
During his imprisonment, Valentine fell in love with his captor’s daughter, sending her a note signed “From your Valentine.”
By the Middle Ages, Valentine’s Day had grown in popularity; however, it was not until the 18th Century that the exchange of gifts and cards would become common.
Today, Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide with couples through flowers, chocolate and other expressions of love, continuing the legacy of Saint Valentine.
“Valentines is a good time to think about people that matter to you and celebrate them,” junior Connor Mais said.
