The history of Valentine's Day and why roses became the symbol of this holiday

In frosty February, when nature is still slumbering under a blanket of snow, a special holiday - Valentine's Day - blossoms worldwide. On February 14, store windows are filled with roses every year, and lovers rush to please each other with romantic gifts. But few people know how this holiday has traveled through the centuries. It turned from an ancient Roman celebration into a modern symbol of love and tenderness.

But why do roses for Valentine's Day become the main symbol of the holiday? The history of this holiday goes back to antiquity, where pagan traditions and Christian legends intertwined. And Rosaholics is ready to tell you the story to make your holiday romantic and filled with deep meaning.

The Origin of Valentine's Day 

The origins of this day are shrouded in a mix of historical and mythical accounts. Several Roman festivals may have contributed to its evolution. Lupercalia, a fertility festival in mid-February, involved ritualistic animal sacrifices and matchmaking. Romans also celebrated Feralia during this same period, a solemn day for honoring the deceased.

The Christianization of the holiday likely played a significant role in its transformation. Several early Christian martyrs named Valentine were revered, and their feast days fell around February 14th. One popular legend involves Saint Valentine, a Roman priest who defied Emperor Claudius II's ban on marriage for young men. Despite facing imprisonment and eventual execution, he continued to perform weddings for young couples in secret.

Valentine's Day's history reveals how Valentine's association with romance grew stronger through the centuries. The holiday gradually evolved from a religious observance to a celebration of romantic love and affection. It's a transformation that continues to shape its modern-day significance.

Early Traditions and Celebrations 

Early celebrations were usually characterized by the exchange of simple tokens of affection. Handwritten notes, often expressing sentiments of romance and admiration, were popular. These letters were often decorated with intricate designs and heartfelt messages.

The exchange of gifts was also an early tradition. Small trinkets, such as accessories, flowers, and handmade crafts, were usually presented as signs of affection. These early practices laid the foundation for the modern-day exchange of cards, gifts, and romance gestures. They are now synonymous with Valentine's Day.

The Role of Roses in Early Valentine's Day 

The exact origins of Valentine's Day roses are uncertain. However, their symbolism in romance predates the holiday itself. In ancient Greece and Rome, roses were considered sacred to Aphrodite, the goddess of romance and beauty. They were often used in weddings and as offerings to the gods.

The rose's association with romance and passion is deeply rooted in its natural beauty and fragrance. The vibrant colors further enhanced its symbolic significance. Throughout Valentine's Day flower history, roses were commonly included in bouquets, used to decorate letters and gifts, or pressed and preserved as keepsakes.

The association of roses with Valentine's Day is a testament to their power as signs of romance and passion.

Why Roses Became the Symbol of Valentine's Day

Why roses are given on Valentine's Day goes back to ancient times. Several important historical and cultural factors have shaped this custom:

• Ancient Origins. In ancient Rome, roses were the sacred flowers of the goddess of love. According to legend, these flowers came from tears shed over her dying lover Adonis. Their scarlet color came from drops of blood from the goddess who had cut herself on the thorns.

• Victorian Influence. During this period, the language of colors reached its peak of popularity. Each shade of rose took on a special meaning in expressing feelings between lovers.

• The legend of St. Valentine. There is a story that before his execution, he gave his jailer's daughter a farewell note with a red rose attached, signing it "From your Valentine."

The meaning of roses on Valentine's Day has deepened over time. In the modern language of colors, the different shades of roses convey a whole palette of feelings:

• Red roses symbolize passionate love and deep affection

• Pink roses symbolize tender sympathy and gratitude.

• White roses symbolize purity of feelings and sincerity of intentions

• Yellow roses convey friendship's joy and the warmth of relationships.

Since then, the rose, especially red, has remained a universal symbol of romantic love, passion, and devotion. This makes it the perfect choice for expressing your most sincere feelings on Valentine's Day.

The Symbolism of Roses on Valentine's Day

Roses on Valentine's Day are more than just beautiful blooms, they’re a language of romance. Each color carries a distinct meaning. It allows for nuanced expressions of affection.

• Red roses. The quintessential Valentine's Day flower, red roses symbolize passionate romance and desire. They are the classic choice for conveying deep affection and strong romantic feelings.

• Pink roses. Representing gratitude, appreciation, and admiration, pink blooms convey gentler emotions. Light pink ones often mean grace and sweetness. Meanwhile, darker shades express deeper appreciation.

• White roses. According to Valentine's Day flower symbolism, they mean purity, innocence, and new beginnings. White blooms are often associated with weddings. They convey feelings of reverence and respect.

• Yellow roses. These represent friendship, joy, and warmth. Yellow roses express feelings of cheerfulness and platonic affection. They are a perfect choice for celebrating friendships and expressing feelings of happiness.

Roses and Modern Valentine's Day Celebrations

Roses and Valentine's Day tradition remain a cornerstone of modern celebrations. The tradition of gifting roses continues to thrive, with florists experiencing a surge in demand for these iconic blooms.

Trends in rose gifting reflect a growing emphasis on personalization and unique expressions of romance. A dozen red blooms remain a classic choice. However, many opt for more creative compositions, including single roses in elegant vases, bouquets with a mix of colors and textures, or even rose-themed gifts like chocolates or perfumes.

The enduring popularity of roses as the flower of choice for Valentine's Day speaks to their timeless appeal. Their beauty, fragrance, and powerful symbolism continue to resonate with people across generations. This makes roses an integral part of this cherished holiday.