St. Valentine’s Day, celebrated every 14th of February, traces its roots back to early Christianity and ancient Rome. It has evolved into one of the most commercialized holidays globally, generating about $25.8 billion annually, according to the National Retail Federation. Although not a public holiday in any country, it is an official feast day in the Anglican Communion and the Lutheran Church.

The day is named after St. Valentine, a third-century martyr from Terni, Italy. Every year, on February 14th, the city, dubbed “city of love,” attracts a plethora of tourists wanting to partake in the Valentine’s Day celebrations. With its origin steeped in such historical significance, it is an ideal moment to ponder our understanding of love and romance. It gives us a chance to delve into the history, neuroscience, philosophy, and psychology of love.

Despite some skeptics dismissing it as a ‘Hallmark holiday,’ others eagerly anticipating their romantic dates, St. Valentine’s Day remains a popular celebration worldwide. It creates an atmosphere that encourages a healthy dating culture, as witnessed by the students of Benedictine College, making it an important player in societal relationships.

Moreover, St. Valentine’s Day is a symbol of love’s cyclical nature, representative of the rhythm of life itself — growth and harvest, new beginnings and eternal love. Whether you love it or loathe it, Valentine’s Day undeniably occupies a significant place in global culture.