In Italy, St. Valentine’s Day is called La Festa Degli Innamorati -the Feast of Lovers. While in America, it is quite common to send a Valentine card to a friend or anonymously to someone who you would like to get to know better. This isn’t the case in Italy. In Italy tradition dictates that St. Valentine’s Day is strictly for lovers.
It is also proffered that St. Valentine’s Day actually originated in Italy during the days of the Roman Empire, when Juno, the goddess of love and marriage did some matchmaking as she aided and protected women in love. To delve deeper, it is also theorized that this day devoted to lovers was a very special day and celebrated specifically on February 14th.
As you can imagine there are numerous stories related to St. Valentine’s Day including one about a man called St. Valentine, who was in reality a priest. It is believed, also that during the days of the Roman empire when marriage was banned during war time, he secretly married those in love. Once this secret was discovered he was put to death.
Just like here in our Country, the giving of chocolate, flowers and cards is a huge St. Valentine’s Day tradition in Italy. One can imagine that this time is a super busy and popular time for gifting Baci as lovers and loved ones open the wrappers and contemplate the message inside.
If you are planning on a special meal to show your affection to a loved one, you can write your own romantic phrase and slip it in a box of candy or in a bouquet of flowers or a single red rose. Romance is almost like a necessity for Italians. It’s everywhere, it’s in books and films and music. In Italy it’s in the air.
Simple things to write are: Ti Amo, I love you – Fu amore a prima vista, It was love at first sight – Amo te oggi e sempre, I love you today and always – Tu sei mio unico solo -You are my one and only, Sii – Be mine. That little added surprise will surely win her over. Buona Fortuna!
WHOA! NOT SO FAST!
This year, Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday. While many would like to celebrate leisurely on Sunday to avoid rushing home from work, etc., Sunday is SUPER BOWL SUNDAY! Many of you are doomed!!!! But with a little planning ahead here is some food for thought or thoughts for food!
Breakfast is a great way to jumpstart a special day. Why not start off with a delicious Bread and Butter Pudding that you can actually put together the night before.
Click Here:
Some dinner suggestions are:
STEAK DIANE which can be accompanied deliciously with creamy mashed potatoes and a simple salad. And crusty Italian bread.
Click Here:
Score your TOUCHDOWN with Grand Marnier Chocolate Mousse enjoyed while sipping Café Royal
Grand Marnier Chocolate Mousse recipe here
Click Here:
Now don’t forget the Baci and a sweet little sentiment.
Buon Mangiata!
No Comments