Every year millions of people throughout the world celebrate St. Valentine’s Day on February 14th. Few know who he was and why he is linked with people in love.
The name Valentine comes from the Latin word valorem tenens (he who perseveres) or valens tyro (a Soldier of Christ). He fought against idolatry and paid for it with his martyrdom by decapitation under the Emperor Claudius in 3 A.D.
From the time of Gregory the Great the Romans appealed to him to cure the plague and epilepsy. Various legends tell us why he later came to be the Patron Saint of lovers. Many mention his love of gardens and flowers, in particular, roses. Some tell of his love of children and the gifts he made, others about his help to young lovers, with the result that he gradually came to represent the love between them and the gifts they exchange on this day.
There are plenty of delightful places in Florence where you can enjoy this special day. Many restaurants or night spots organise special events for the evening while roses, chocolates and other gifts are specially wrapped for the occasion.
[Susan Glasspool]

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