Valentine’s Day occurs every year on February 14, across the United States and other places in the world. Flowers, candy, and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, but where did Valentine’s Day come from?

The history of Valentine’s Day is shrouded in mystery. It is known today as a day, or even a full month of romance. It contains vestiges of both Christian and Roman tradition. Some believe that Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of St. Valentine’s burial or death, which most likely occurred around A.D. 270.

At the end of the 5th century, February 14 was declared a day of love. During the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in England and France that February 14 was the beginning of birds’ mating season, which enhanced the idea that the middle of Valentine’s Day should be a day for romance.