: Many historians link the day to Lupercalia , an ancient Roman fertility festival celebrated in mid-February that involved pairing women with men by lottery.
Here is a full breakdown of the history, legends, and alternative events tied to February 14th: 💘 The Origins of Valentine's Day feb14th
: Pope Gelasius I established the Feast of Saint Valentine in 496 AD to replace the pagan festival. The day honors at least two Christian martyrs named Valentine who were executed by Emperor Claudius II in the 3rd century. : Many historians link the day to Lupercalia