Valentine’s Day – the day of the year when roses and chocolates are delivered by the bucketload. But have you ever wondered where it all started?
According to Google, the feast of Lupercalia was celebrated from 13-15 February each year. Drunk and naked men sacrificed a dog and a goat and then whipped women with the hides of the animals they had just slain. Young women would actually line up for the men to hit them, as they believed this would make them fertile.
A match making lottery where men drew the names of women from a jar ensured that couples would have a good time for the remainder of the festival. Perhaps this was the Roman version of that game where keys are thrown into a bowl.
Roman Emperor Claudius II also executed two men — both named Valentine — on February 14 of different years in the 3rd century A.D. It’s possible this is how the name Valentine’s Day came from.
I wouldn’t recommend sacrificing your pet dog or goat to impress your loved one. Maybe a nice goat curry from your local Indian restaurant would do the trick. Whatever you do, have a lovely Valentine’s Day. And if you are lucky enough to receive a marriage proposal – give me a call!
