It all began in Rome during the year 278 A.D. with the death of a priest named Valentine. He was a small priest in Rome who lived during the time of a cruel king named Claudius – II.
Claudius II wanted a strong army but many men were not willing to join the army due to their attachment towards families, especially to their lovers. So the king decided that for a great period of time, no marriage in the country should take place. All the priests and clergy were ordered not to permit any marriages. Men were forced to join the army and asked to serve the king’s overambitious wars.
It was during this time, the priest (Valentine) secretly conducted the marriage ceremonies for the couples in love. The soldiers secretly married the women of their dreams with Valentine being there to approve their marriage. When Claudius found out that Valentine had been supporting the marriages, he was arrested, tortured in prison.
He was beaten using clubs and he was beheaded on February 14. Before his death, while in prison, he befriended the jailer’s daughter who had pity and care on him. He wrote his final letter to her and signed it as ‘Your Valentine’. His death is honored by lovers all over the world on February 14 and his love to unite lovers is celebrated.