Valentine’s Day is celebrated worldwide with gifts of flowers, chocolates, and candlelit dinners, but in Italy, the holiday holds a special significance. As the birthplace of San Valentino, the patron saint of lovers, Italy embraces this day with unique customs that blend history, romance, and a deep appreciation for love. For those who dream of an Italian getaway or simply want to bring a touch of La Dolce Vita to their own Valentine’s celebrations, here’s a look at the traditions, history, and romantic locations that make Italy one of the most enchanting places to celebrate love.
Valentine’s Day in Italy: the Legend of San Valentino
The origins of Valentine’s Day trace back to ancient Rome, where several Christian martyrs named Valentino were honored. However, the most renowned among them is Saint Valentine of Terni, a compassionate bishop who lived in the 3rd century during the reign of Emperor Claudius II.
Valentine’s Day in Italy: a defender of Love
At the time, Rome was engaged in numerous military campaigns, and Emperor Claudius II, known as Claudius the Cruel, believed that single men made better soldiers than those with families. To strengthen his armies, he issued an edict banning marriages for young men, hoping to discourage attachments that might weaken their resolve on the battlefield. Valentino, however, saw love and marriage as sacred bonds blessed by God. Defying the emperor’s decree, he secretly performed Christian wedding ceremonies for young couples, ensuring that love could triumph even in an age of war and persecution. Some accounts suggest that he also offered comfort and support to persecuted Christians, helping them evade Roman authorities.
Valentine’s Day in Italy. Arrest, imprisonment, and a final act of love
Valentino’s defiance did not go unnoticed. He was eventually arrested and brought before Emperor Claudius himself. While some versions of the legend suggest that Claudius initially admired Valentino’s convictions, others claim the bishop attempted to convert the emperor to Christianity—an act that sealed his fate. He was sentenced to death by beheading, a common punishment for those who opposed Roman rule. Before his execution, Valentino was imprisoned, where he continued to spread messages of love and faith. It is said that during his time in confinement, he befriended the jailer’s blind daughter. Moved by her kindness, he prayed for her healing, and miraculously, her sight was restored. On the eve of his execution—February 14, 269 AD—Valentino allegedly sent her a note signed “Your Valentine,” marking what many believe to be the first-ever Valentine’s message.
Valentine’s Day in Italy. From martyr to patron saint of love
Valentino’s execution turned him into a martyr for love and compassion, and in later centuries, his name became synonymous with romance. As Christianity spread, the Church sought to replace Lupercalia, a pagan fertility festival filled with revelry and matchmaking rituals. To encourage more virtuous celebrations of love, Pope Gelasius I officially established February 14 as the Feast of Saint Valentine in 496 AD, honoring the bishop who defied an emperor for the sake of love.
Valentine’s Day in Italy. Romanticization through the ages
For centuries, the story of Saint Valentine remained largely a religious tradition, but it was poets like Geoffrey Chaucer in the Middle Ages and later William Shakespeare who transformed the day into an occasion for courtly romance. Chaucer, in particular, linked February 14 with birds choosing their mates in his poem Parliament of Fowls, solidifying its connection to love and affection. By the 18th century, the exchange of love notes, flowers, and tokens of affection became commonplace across Europe. In England and France, Valentine’s Day cards became popular, eventually making their way to America and beyond.
San Valentino in Italy: a celebration of love
In Italy, where the legend of San Valentino was born, February 14 is still a deeply romantic occasion. Unlike in other parts of the world, where gifts like chocolates and cards dominate, Italians celebrate with grand romantic gestures, intimate dinners, and trips to picturesque destinations like Verona—the city of Romeo and Juliet. In the Umbrian town of Terni, where Valentino was a bishop, celebrations include religious processions and festivals dedicated to love and marriage. For Italians, Valentine’s Day is more than just a commercial holiday—it is a reminder of the enduring power of love and the legacy of a man who gave his life to protect it.
Valentine’s Day in Italy. Romantic Italian Valentine’s traditions
Baci Perugina: Italy’s Chocolate Kisses
No Italian Valentine’s Day is complete without Baci Perugina, the famous chocolates from Perugia. Named after the Italian word for “kisses” (baci), these small delights feature a hazelnut center, creamy chocolate filling, and a whole hazelnut on top, all wrapped in silver or blue foil. Each chocolate contains a tiny romantic message inside—just like a fortune cookie, but for lovers. In 2023, Perugina even partnered with Dolce & Gabbana to release a special “Love and Passion” collection, adding an even more luxurious touch to these beloved treats. If you want to bring a taste of Italy to your Valentine’s celebration, you can find Baci Perugina in many gourmet shops across the U.S.
Valentine’s Day in Italy. Locks of love: a controversial modern tradition
Inspired by Federico Moccia’s novel “Ho voglia di te”, young couples in Italy started a tradition called Lucchetti dell’Amore (Locks of Love). Couples write their names on a padlock, fasten it to a bridge (often in Rome, Florence, or Venice), and throw the key into the river as a symbol of everlasting love. While undeniably romantic, the tradition has caused concerns—the weight of thousands of padlocks has damaged historic bridges. Authorities in cities like Florence and Rome periodically remove them, but couples continue to add new ones. If you visit Italy with your partner, you might be tempted to add your own lock of love—but consider a more sustainable way to celebrate, like writing a love letter or making a wish together on one of Italy’s many wishing fountains.
Valentine’s Day in Italy. Verona: the city of Romeo and Juliet
For the ultimate romantic getaway, few places rival the charm of Verona, the city immortalized as the setting of Shakespeare’s timeless love story, Romeo and Juliet. Nestled in the heart of northern Italy, Verona exudes an irresistible blend of history, culture, and romance, making it the perfect destination for couples seeking a magical Valentine’s escape. Every year, from February 11 to 14, Verona transforms into a true lover’s paradise with its enchanting Verona in Love festival. The city’s historic streets come alive with heart-shaped decorations, glowing red lanterns, and a festive atmosphere that celebrates love in all its forms. Strolling through Verona during this time feels like stepping into a fairy tale, where every corner of the city whispers stories of passion and devotion. One of the most iconic attractions during Verona in Love is the giant red heart in Piazza dei Signori, the elegant medieval square that becomes the epicenter of the celebrations. This massive heart-shaped installation serves as the perfect backdrop for romantic photos, while the surrounding streets are filled with artisan markets, live performances, and poetry readings dedicated to love. For those who want to express their deepest emotions, the festival’s love letter contest offers a unique opportunity. Inspired by the famous tradition of writing to Juliet, romantics from around the world send heartfelt messages to the legendary heroine, hoping to be chosen as the most touching love letter of the year. This long-standing tradition keeps the spirit of Shakespeare’s Juliet alive and proves that love letters still have a place in the digital age.
Valentine’s Day in Italy: intimate experience
Couples looking for a more intimate experience can indulge in exclusive Valentine’s dinners at Verona’s cozy restaurants. Many eateries’ craft special menus inspired by Juliet’s story, offering dishes that combine traditional Veronese flavors with a romantic twist. Dining by candlelight in a historic trattoria, sipping local Amarone wine, and enjoying delicacies such as risotto all’Amarone or handmade tortellini creates an unforgettable experience. No visit to Verona is complete without stopping at Juliet’s Balcony, the city’s most famous romantic landmark. Located at Casa di Giulietta, this picturesque balcony attracts thousands of visitors who leave love notes on the courtyard walls, hoping to receive good fortune in their romantic endeavors. While the historical accuracy of the site may be debated, the magic and allure of Juliet’s Balcony remain undeniable, making it a must-visit for lovers from around the world. Even for those who aren’t fans of Shakespeare, Verona’s charm is simply irresistible. The city’s cobblestone streets, Renaissance architecture, and scenic views of the Adige River create an atmosphere that is inherently romantic. Whether it’s wandering hand in hand through Piazza delle Erbe, marveling at the ancient Arena di Verona, or watching the sunset from Castel San Pietro, every moment in Verona feels like a scene from a love story. For couples searching for the ultimate Italian Valentine’s experience, Verona offers the perfect blend of romance, history, and charm. With its Verona in Love festivities, legendary landmarks, and breathtaking beauty, this city is truly a destination where love flourishes in every corner.
Valentine’s Day in Italy: Basilica di San Valentino in Terni
For a truly traditional and spiritual experience of Valentine’s Day, many Italians make a pilgrimage to the Basilica di San Valentino in Terni, where the tomb of Saint Valentine lies beneath the main altar. Located in the charming town of Terni, this sacred site holds a special place in the hearts of those who celebrate the day dedicated to love. The church, with its serene atmosphere, offers a deeply personal connection to the saint and his legacy. Every year, on the Sunday before February 14th, engaged couples gather in the Basilica to receive a special blessing. This beautiful tradition honors Saint Valentine, who is known for his unwavering commitment to love and his role as a protector of those in love. According to the legend, he performed secret weddings for couples, defying the emperor’s orders to prevent marriage among young lovers. His courage and dedication to love have made him a symbol of devotion and compassion. One of the most famous legends surrounding Saint Valentine also speaks of his love for nature. It is said that he grew roses in his garden and would gift them to young lovers, encouraging them to nurture their relationships with kindness, loyalty, and care. The story of Saint Valentine’s roses has inspired the modern-day tradition of giving red roses on Valentine’s Day, a gesture that symbolizes deep love and passion. The Basilica di San Valentino not only offers a beautiful setting for those seeking a deeper connection to the spirit of Valentine’s Day, but it also serves as a reminder of the enduring power of love, kindness, and selflessness. Whether you’re visiting for a religious experience, to partake in the annual blessing, or simply to connect with the history of love’s most iconic patron, Terni offers a heartfelt and memorable celebration of Valentine’s Day.
Valentine’s Day in Italy. Vico del Gargano: love, oranges, and ancient traditions
In the picturesque town of Vico del Gargano, located in the heart of Puglia, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in a way that is truly unlike anywhere else—through the vibrant presence of oranges. This unique tradition ties together love, nature, and history, all under the protective gaze of Saint Valentine, the town’s patron saint. But why oranges, you may wonder? Saint Valentine is not just the saint of lovers, but also the protector of citrus groves, which are plentiful in the region. The town’s devotion to both love and nature is reflected in the way it celebrates the holiday, turning the humble orange into a symbol of affection, prosperity, and joy. Each year, on February 14th, the streets of Vico del Gargano come alive with festivities. The highlight of the day is a grand parade, where a wooden statue of Saint Valentine is carefully adorned with oranges and laurel leaves, creating a striking spectacle of color and devotion. The citrus fruits are not only a tribute to the saint’s connection with the groves but also a symbol of the town’s appreciation for nature’s bounty. One of the most cherished aspects of the celebration is the blessing of oranges and lemons. These fruits, believed to bring good fortune and happiness, are blessed by the local priest and then distributed to the townspeople. Eating these blessed fruits is thought to ensure happiness and joy in the year to come—a sweet reminder of the connections between love, faith, and nature that define this special day. For couples, the day culminates in a romantic ritual in the Vicolo del Bacio (The Alley of the Kiss), a narrow passageway so steeped in local lore that it is said to secure a lover’s loyalty for life. Couples who kiss in this alley are believed to strengthen their bond and ensure their love endures, making it a perfect spot for any pair to affirm their affection for one another. If you find yourself unable to make it to Vico del Gargano for the celebrations, you can still infuse a bit of this enchanting tradition into your own Valentine’s Day. Consider incorporating oranges into your celebrations by preparing a romantic Italian meal with citrus flavors—perhaps a zesty dessert like an orange ricotta cake or an Aperol Spritz to raise a toast to love. In this way, you can embrace the spirit of Vico del Gargano and its sweet, fragrant traditions, no matter where you are.
Valentine’s Day in Italy. Celebrating Valentine’s Day, the Italian Way
Italy’s Valentine’s traditions are steeped in history, passion, and a deep reverence for love. Whether you’re dreaming of a romantic getaway to Verona or simply want to embrace the spirit of Italian romance at home, there are many ways to bring a touch of Italy into your celebrations:
- Enjoy a romantic Italian dinner (think pasta, wine, and candlelight).
- Give Baci chocolates with handwritten love notes inside.
- Exchange a meaningful, heartfelt letter—just like lovers do in Juliet’s city.
- Toast with Prosecco or Limoncello, embracing the sweetness of love.
No matter where you celebrate, Valentine’s Day is a time to cherish love in all its forms—just as San Valentino did centuries ago.
Buon San Valentino! ❤️
