While love can be celebrated every day, there’s something uniquely special about February 14th—Valentine’s Day, a day devoted entirely to love and romance. Across the globe, couples eagerly anticipate this occasion, often accompanied by one timeless tradition: a bouquet of roses.
These beautiful, fragrant blooms are synonymous with Valentine’s Day, making their way into the hands of lovers everywhere.
But have you ever wondered why roses became such a universal symbol of true love?
Where did the tradition of gifting roses on Valentine’s Day begin?
LoveYouFlower™ has the fascinating history behind this day of love and the iconic roses that make it so memorable to share with you. Let’s dive into their enchanting story!
The History of Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day, also known as St. Valentine’s Day, honors Saint Valentine (or Valentinus). This celebration of love dates back to the 14th century, replacing the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, which honored the god of love.
But why is Saint Valentine associated with love? During the reign of Emperor Claudius II, who was deeply focused on war, men were frequently drafted into battle, leaving their families and loved ones behind. Over time, fewer men were willing to fight, preferring to stay with those they cherished. Enraged, the emperor banned all engagements and marriages in Rome.
Despite this decree, Saint Valentine secretly officiated weddings for couples, defying the emperor’s orders. His actions led to his imprisonment and eventual execution. Even in captivity, Saint Valentine continued to bless couples, earning him a place in history as a symbol of unwavering love and devotion.
Why Roses Are the Ultimate Valentine’s Day Gift
After learning about Valentine’s Day’s origins, you might wonder: Why are roses so closely tied to this holiday?
The tradition of gifting roses began in the late 17th century when King Charles XII of Sweden discovered the “language of flowers” during a visit to Persia. This art form used flowers to convey emotions and messages from the giver to the recipient.
In this floral language, roses—especially red ones—came to symbolize love. According to legend, red roses were created from the tears of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love, mixed with the blood of Adonis, the man she loved. With the emergence of Valentine’s Day, roses naturally became the most popular flower to express deep affection and devotion to a special someone.
The Meaning Behind Rose Colors
When thinking of Valentine’s Day, most people associate it with classic red roses. However, roses come in a variety of stunning colors, each carrying its own deep and unique meaning.
If you’re unsure which color to choose, LoveYouFlower™ is here to guide you with these Valentine’s Day bouquet suggestions:
1. Red Rose Bouquets
Red roses symbolize love, passion, and romance, making them the ultimate representation of falling in love or deep desire. They are perfect for anniversaries, declarations of love, or moments when you want to share your heart with someone special.