Roses as a Symbol of Love on Valentine's Day

The association of roses with Valentine's Day likely stems from the ancient Greek and Roman tradition of using roses in religious and secular celebrations of love and fertility. In ancient Greece, roses were linked to Aphrodite, the goddess of love, and were often used in wedding ceremonies and celebrations of the coming of spring.

In ancient Rome, the festival of Lupercalia, which was celebrated in mid-February, included the exchange of gifts, including roses, between lovers. The Roman poet Ovid even wrote about the custom of sending roses to express love in his work "The Art of Love."

The association of roses with Valentine's Day was further reinforced in the Middle Ages, when the flower was often depicted in literature and artwork as a symbol of romantic love. The red rose in particular was seen as a symbol of passion and love, while the white rose was associated with purity and innocence.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, the custom of giving flowers, particularly roses, as gifts on Valentine's Day became increasingly popular, and the rose came to be seen as the quintessential symbol of the holiday. Today, red roses in particular are still associated with Valentine's Day and are often given as gifts between romantic partners on the holiday.

Large Pink Heart with Red Flame Roses