
Valentine's Day
Clemens HaardiekShare on social networks...

February 14th is Valentine's Day. People all over the world celebrate Valentine's Day—but not everywhere in the same way.
In many countries, Valentine's Day is traditionally celebrated on February 14th, but customs on this day vary.Valentine's Day probably originates from Saint Valentine, a bishop from the Italian city of Terni. As a priest, Valentine is said to have married couples according to Christian rites and given them flowers from his garden, despite a ban by Emperor Claudius Gothicus. The Roman emperor had Valentine executed for this on February 14, 269 AD.
Today, Valentine's Day is celebrated every year on February 14th in honor of Valentine—even though no one seems to remember it anymore. In the fourth century, Pope Julius I had a basilica built in Rome in honor of Valentine.
Valentine's Day was brought to Germany by American GIs who were stationed in Germany after the war and brought their traditions with them.
Today, lovers primarily give each other flowers, most often red roses, as a token of their affection. But beautiful Valentine's Day cards, sweets , and jewelry are also popular gifts on this romantic holiday.
In Denmark, Valentine's Day is a mystery because the small gifts are sent anonymously and the recipients have to guess where they come from.
Instead of red roses, Danes like to give each other bouquets of snowdrops. Hearts made of flowers, pastries, and chocolate are also popular.
Things also get romantic in Sweden on February 14. Valentine's Day is called "Alla hjärtans dag" (All Hearts Day). Lovers give each other wine gum hearts to show their love for one another.
Valentine's Day is a relatively new holiday in Sweden, having only been celebrated since the 1980s.
In Finland, Valentine's Day isn't just a day for lovers, but for all friends. It's simply—and very progressively—the day of friendship. Friends receive a card or a small gift. Having a really large circle of friends is worthwhile.