The origins of Valentine’s Day date back to the 3 rd century AD, although biographical details about Saint Valentine himself remain shrouded in mystery. There were reportedly three different Saint Valentines, including a Pope. However, only one Valentinus was canonized, leading to 14 February becoming a recognized day of celebration. The tradition flourished particularly in England. Here, open displays of affection were rare in ancient times however, an exception was made each year on 14 February. This was the one day when people could freely express their love through letters and small gifts.

In an era of arranged marriages, this act of spontaneity was refreshing, although it rarely changed one’s fate. By the 18 th century, some believed that Valentine’s Day had been established to replace the ancient pagan fertility festival of Lupercalia. This was celebrated on 15 February, in honour of the agricultural god Faunus. If true, it was a pragmatic solution to formally move this to 14 February. According to legend, single men were chosen at random by single women, forming couples that celebrated the festival together.

Another key figure in all this is Geoffrey Chaucer, as it is said that Valentine's Day, the festival of “romantic love”, is one of his legacies. This is because his 1382 poem “The Parliament of Fowls” contains what is considered the first recorded reference to celebrating Valentine’s Day: 14 February, “When every bird comes there to choose his mate”.

Valentine’s Day is not embraced everywhere. In India, some conservatives reject it, they consider it an unwelcome Western import. A not appreciated public exhibitions of love and free choice in love and marriage, even though it is just one day a year. Peru celebrates Valentine’s Day as a national holiday, while in Saudi Arabia and Iran, it is strictly forbidden. In Estonia, Finland and Portugal, the day focuses more on friendship than romance. In short, many different opinions and interpretations in celebration and approach. However, Valentine's Day continues to exist, just like life itself.