Read about the origin, history and celebration of Valentine's Day (La Festa Degli Innamorati) in Italy.
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Valentine's Day in Italy

Origin and History of Valentine's Day in Italy

History of Valentine’s Day dates back to the period of Claudius II and his rule in Rome. During this period, the emperor frequently engaged in wars. He wanted to train a big army and expected more number of men to volunteer. Many men did not want to fight as it was hard for them to leave their family and loved ones. This made the emperor very furious and he came up with a crazy plan. He prohibited marriages and engagements throughout the country. During this time a priest (Saint Valentine) in Rome secretly started arranging marriages in favor of young couples. This act was discovered by the emperor and he ordered Valentine to be imprisoned. The priest fell in love with the jailer’s daughter and he secretly passed love notes to her. His final note to her read 'from your Valentine'. On February 14, 269 A.D, the good saint was sentenced to death. Since then the day has been observed to honor Saint Valentine.

Local name: La Festa Degli Innamorati

Ways to celeberate La Festa Degli Innamorati in Italy

Valentine’s Day is also celebrated as a Spring Festival in Italy. On this day, young people gather in the gardens and listen to music or hear romantic poetry. The shops are adorned and filled with all varieties of bonbons. Rose, perfumes, flowers, diamonds are the common gifts exchanged on this special day. Baci Perugina is considered as a very trendy Valentine's gift in Italy. It is a tiny chocolate enclosed with hazelnut attached with a slip of paper with a lyrical love quote. The rhythm of dance, the timber of music, the strong aroma of tasteful wines and special delicacies make the occasion more special.