Valentine’s Day History

There are varying opinions as to the origin of Valentine’s Day. Some experts state that it originated from St. Valentine, a Roman who was martyred for refusing to give up Christianity. He died on February 14, 269 A.D., the same day that had been devoted to love lotteries. Legend also says that St. Valentine left a farewell note for the jailer’s daughter, who had become his friend, and signed it “From Your Valentine”. Other aspects of the story say that Saint Valentine served as a priest at the temple during the reign of Emperor Claudius. Claudius then had Valentine jailed for defying him. In 496 A.D. Pope Gelasius set aside February 14 to honour St. Valentine.

Gradually, February 14 became the date for exchanging love messages and St. Valentine became the patron saint of lovers.

Here is a nice interactive book

Famous Love Stories in History

• Antony and Cleopatra
  The last Pharaoh of Egypt and the dashing Roman general
• Abelard and Heloise
  A monk and a nun whose love letters became famous
• Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal
  Grieving emperor who built the Taj Mahal for his late wife
• John Alden and Priscilla Mullins
  One of the earliest romances in the American colonies
• Abigail and John Adams
  A half-century love affair during the Revolutionary War
• Queen Victoria and Prince Albert
  English royalty who mourned her husband’s death for 40 years
• Robert and Elizabeth Browning
  A secret courtship between two legendary poets
• Marie and Pierre Curie
  Partners in love and science
• Annie Oakley and Frank Butler
  Skilled rifle shots who inspired an American musical
• Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne
  Broadway couple who reigned for 55 years

Useful Words

crush=cotta

cutie, babe, honey= amore

to have a crush on someone =prendere una cotta per qualcuno

Useful Phrases

You’re simply beautiful.= sei semplicimente bellissima

You’re just adorable.= sei adorabile

You’re the most beautiful girl under the sun.=sei la più bella ragazza sulla faccia della terra

I have butterflies in my tummy.=ho le farfalle nello stomaco

I’m head over heels in love.= sono pazzo d’amore

Babe, you’re my number one.= amore, sei il numero uno

You’ve got me hooked.= mi hai stregato

I’m totally nuts about you.=sono perso per te

I’m absolutely crazy about you.= sono pazzo di te

I think we are made for each other.= penso che siamo fatti l’uno per l’altro

I can’t resist your charms.= non riesco a resisterti

My heart is in your hands.=il mio cuore è nelle tue mani

I will always love you.=ti amerò per sempre

Click on the word Valentine to download a wordseach game