The beginning of Valentine’s Day isn’t very romantic. Although this beginning wasn’t very romantic, changes were made for a positive celebration that has continued on until this day.
Two different men of faith with the last name Valentine, were ordered executed by Roman Emperor Claudius II in the third century. It is believed the Catholic Church established St. Valentine’s Day to honor the martyrs. On the pagan side, the Romans celebrated a feast of Lupercalia that included animal sacrifices, and spanking women, believed to make them fertile. The fifth century pope got involved to banish the pagan rituals and the holiday evolved into a more amorous celebration.
Chocolate candy has become synonymous with Valentine’s Day as the confection was once believed to be an aphrodisiac. Science dispelled that myth, but chocolate remains tied to February 14th.
Candy maker Cadbury is credited with establishing the heart-shaped boxes to present the sweet treats. Launched in the 1860s, the idea was to use the box to store sentimental mementoes like love letters or gifts once the chocolates were eaten. The heart-shaped candy boxes are still popular, and the sweet keepsake is a more pleasant token of a holiday that was originally marred with tragedy.