Valentine’s Day ~ 14th February

St Valentine’s Day has origins in pagan traditions of Rome and Northern Europe. This day was dedicated to the Norse Archer god, Vali and Juno Februa, Roman Goddess of Love. It has also been associated with the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, a celebration of fertility and purification.  

In time, the new religion declared the martyred Saint Valentine as the patron of the day. It is said he secretly married couples when it was outlawed by Claudius ll who wanted to sway soldiers from romantic distractions.  

In the 14th century the writer, Chaucer birthed the association of romantic love with Valentine’s Day with words depicting ‘love birds’ choosing mates on the occasion. 

Modern symbols of Valentine’s Day are rooted in an ancient past: the bow and arrow of Eros, the roses of Venus, the heart: where love resides, birds for loyalty and knots/locks for ever-lasting connections. 

True love is compelling and all-consuming. It is also so joyful and deeply honest. When we fall in love, we are struck in the heart by Eros’ arrow, and we are never the same again. Keep the flame of love burning! 

I welcome you to place your name in the Valentine’s Day Cauldron at SpellBox in the Royal Arcade. A spell will be cast over the names to invoke true love and romance. 

With love,
Danae the SpellBox Witch and author of Becoming the Witch.