The history and origin of the true St. Valentine is enshrouded in mystery. Considered the patron saint of lovers, there are at least three different stories surrounding his identity. To learn more about St. Valentine, check out the links on this page.
Who Was St. Valentine?
One legend tells of a third century Roman priest who went against the anti-marriage laws of Emperor Claudius II. Claudius believed that unmarried men made better soldiers then men with wives and families, so he made it illegal for young men to marry. It was said that Valentine secretly married couples, and when Claudius discovered his betrayal, he had Valentine executed.History.com: The History of Valentine's Day
Another story tells of a priest who was executed helping Christian prisoners escape harsh treatment and torture in the Roman prisons.History.com: The History of Valentine's Day
A third Saint Valentine was a martyred minister who practiced in the province of Africa, but there is very little known about him and few scholars believe that he is actually associated with the Valentine's Day holiday.Nova Reinna: Saint Valentine
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References
Fast Facts
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Fact:
Valentine's Day is a lover's holiday celebrated to commemorate him
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Valentine's Day is February 14
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Fact:
Valentine's Day 2009 falls on a Saturday
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Patron Saint of engaged couples, bee keepers, people suffering from epilepsy, fainting, greetings, happy marriage, love, lovers, plague, travelers and youthCatholic Online: St. Valentine
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Represented in pictures with birds and rosesCatholic Online: St. Valentine
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Fact:
The three most well-known historical men known as St. Valentine were martyred for their religious beliefs and later recognized by the Catholic Church
