Search results

Discover the romantic origins of Valentine's Day and its intriguing customs in Spain. Uncover the ancient roots of this celebration and its modern commercial evolution. Experience the Romance of Valentine's Day in Spain: Explore the Intriguing Traditions. How it All Began... Valentine's Day, also known as All Lovers' Day (Spanish: Día de San Valentín), as we know it today, with its sweet heart-shaped gifts and chubby cupids on valentines, is undoubtedly a product of modern commercialization. History of "Valentines" But it all started with Esther A. Howland, a talented American businesswoman, in the early 1940s. She came up with the idea of selling greeting cards adorned with typical symbols of love (hearts pierced by Cupid's arrows, red roses, and other thematic attributes) on Valentine's Day, the traditional holiday celebrated in Anglo-Saxon countries. She called them "Valentines." The idea was well-received, especially among the youth, and it took off! Mass distribution of romantic cards Later on, the distribution of souvenirs and other Valentine's Day paraphernalia spawned new ideas related to the commercialization of this day: "lovers' spots" started appearing, "lovers' parties" were organized, and musicians even began composing music and songs in honor of Valentine's Day! Thus, the concept of "Valentine's Day" was embraced by all possible economic sectors, and this day naturally evolved into an unofficial holiday! Throughout the 20th century, much of the civilized world adopted the tradition of celebrating February 14th as Valentine's Day, the patron saint of love. Interestingly, in most Latin American countries, this day is considered a holiday not only for lovers but also for friends, with gifts or flowers exchanged among the closest of friends! All Lovers' Day: Ancient Origins However, despite the fact that this holiday became known worldwide thanks to the exceptional commercial acumen of an American lady, its origins date back to Antiquity, to the pagan customs of ancient Greeks and Romans. In 325 AD, at the First Ecumenical Council of the Catholic Church, one of the main topics of discussion was the idea of ​​Christianizing pagan holidays, which were still popular in the declining Roman Spain. Pope Gelasius I banned the famous Lupercalia in 496 AD - this was an ancient pagan holiday of the Romans, a holiday of fertility, which was celebrated in honor of the god Faunus, traditionally for two days from February 13 to 15. In search of a Christian replacement for this tumultuous celebration of love and life, the day of commemoration of Saint Valentine was chosen. Ironically, it was chosen simply because this saint was one of the few not yet occupied in the Catholic Church calendar. The Legend of St. Valentine, Roses, and the First "Valentine" The most popular legend of St. Valentine, the patron saint of lovers, tells of a young priest who lived in the time of Emperor Claudius II, who ruled the remnants of the Roman Empire from 268 to 270 AD. This emperor, like most tyrants, was a despot: he forbade young Romans to marry, believing that bachelors made much better soldiers than married men. Priest Valentine disagreed with him and continued to secretly marry young lovers. Claudius, enraged upon learning of the disobedience, ordered one of his officers to capture and execute him. Valentine was seized and imprisoned. Asterius (the name of this legionnaire), mocking the captive Valentine, demanded that the Christian, in the name of his God, restore sight to his blind daughter. To the surprise of the warrior, the future saint did this, but it did not save him from a martyr's death. By the way, they say... By the way, they say that the young priest managed to fall in love with the beautiful Julia before his death, whom he miraculously healed. He wrote her a love letter, signed "Your Valentine," (supposedly) becoming the ancestor of all modern "valentines"! And Julia, after the execution of her beloved, planted an almond tree with pink flowers on his grave, which has since become a symbol of love and true friendship. By the way, the whole family converted to Christianity after these events. #ValentinesDay #Spain #SpanishTraditions #RomanticOrigins #LoveStory #ValentinesLegends #IntriguingHistory #ValentinesDayHistory #CulturalHeritage #RomanticSpain #ValentinesDayCelebration #LoveAndTradition

Explore the Christmas holidays in Spain with our comprehensive calendar of festivities and traditions. Discover the official and unofficial holidays, including unique celebrations like the Day of the Immaculate Conception, El Gordo de Navidad lottery, Christmas Eve, and more. Among the Christmas holidays, in Spain, there are official and unofficial ones. December 8, 22, 26, and 28 are not mandatory official holidays, but some Spaniards may choose to take them off and not work on these days. The presented Christmas holiday calendar in Spain is based on the state calendar and reflects the official holidays in Spain. December 8 — Day of the Immaculate Conception and Christmas Log — Tio de Nadal — in Catalonia On this day, Spaniards, especially in Catalonia, celebrate the Day of the Immaculate Conception and the beginning of the Christmas holidays. Traditionally, this time is associated with the ritual of Tio de Nadal, which is a wooden log that "eats" treats and gifts for children. December 22 — Drawing of the National Christmas Lottery "El Gordo de Navidad" The drawing of the El Gordo de Navidad lottery is one of the most anticipated events in the Spanish calendar. Millions of Spaniards eagerly await the results, hoping to win a big prize and make Christmas even more magical. December 24 — Christmas Eve In anticipation of Christmas, Spaniards celebrate Christmas Eve, spending time with family and loved ones. On this evening, special dishes are usually prepared, and homes and streets are decorated. December 25 — Christmas Christmas in Spain is a day when families come together to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. Church services, dinners with relatives, and gift exchanges make this day special and memorable. December 26 — Saint Stephen's Day Saint Stephen's Day, or Boxing Day, is a time for charity and helping those in need. Many Spaniards participate in charitable events and help those who need support. December 28 — Day of the Holy Innocents (Day of Fools) The Day of the Holy Innocents is a traditional Spanish holiday dedicated to pranks and jokes. On this day, people give each other fake gifts and play various tricks. January 1 — New Year's Day and the Feast of the Circumcision of the Lord (Catholic holiday) New Year's Day in Spain begins with the celebration of the Catholic holiday of the Feast of the Circumcision of the Lord. This day is marked by traditional festive events and meetings with loved ones. January 6 — Epiphany or Three Kings' Day The Epiphany celebrates the manifestation of God to the world and the visit of the Three Kings to the baby Jesus. On this day, Spaniards exchange gifts and hold parades with the participation of the Magi. Learn more: List of all holidays in Spain When planning a trip to Spain, consider the Christmas calendar to immerse yourself in the holiday atmosphere and enjoy Spanish traditions and customs. #ChristmasInSpain #SpanishHolidays #FestiveTraditions #SpainTravel #HolidayCalendar #ElGordo #ThreeKingsDay

Discover beach elopement ideas in Barcelona, intimate venues, and all-inclusive wedding packages for elegant city ceremony, here are a few elopement ideas in Spain  to inspire you: 🌅  Beach Elopement in Barcelona small wedding ceremony venues , such as: Boutique hotels with rooftop terraces Secluded gardens in Barcelona Packages include: Planning & coordination by expert wedding planners in Barcelona, Spain Ceremony officiant Is a Dream Elopement Location A Barcelona, Spain wedding  combines cosmopolitan flair with Mediterranean

Rovaniemi city is known as the home of Santa Claus Santa's village and Santa park are located in Rovaniemi Santa’s Village is a holiday destination in Lapland. It has Santa's great souvenir shops where you can buy Christmas decorations or even a Santa suit if you feel like dressing up like Santa Claus on your next holiday. Santa Park is an underground fairytale park that offers magical joy for children of all ages Santa Park

You can take a trip to Santa Claus Village and Santa Park on your own or use the Scandinavian Travel But as soon as you see... no, not even Santa Claus himself, but his elf helpers at Santa's Village in This city has unique attractions and events such as Santa Claus Village and Santa Claus's Post Office This city has unique attractions and events such as Santa Claus Village and Santa Claus's Post Office Find out more: Santa Claus!

Santa! Around Christmas time, Santa Claus lives in nearby Levi, and he loves kids Santa Claus is one of the Rovaniemi is the official home of Santa Claus in Finland. Santa lives in the Santa Claus village in Rovaniemi and he is friendly towards children, so don’t be Visit Santa Claus villages in Rovaniemi where you can find Santa, his elves, reindeer, Christmas shops

Visit Father Christmas in his secret cabin Go to Santa Claus' Village How much is it to enter Santa's Santa in his secret hut, located in the town of Levi. Go to Santa Claus' Village After a cozy chat with Santa in his secret hut, head to Santa's village! You can take part in workshops and classes and meet Santa. How much is it to enter Santa's Village?

ornaments and indulging in traditional Finnish cuisine to embarking on snowy adventures and visiting Santa Explore a selection of themes that promise something special for everyone: Santa's Workshop Adventure : Step into Santa's enchanting workshop, where you'll engage in hands-on crafting, learn the secrets of gift-making, and even get a chance to meet Santa Claus himself.

escape that should not be missed, especially for those following a Barcelona 1-day itinerary. A must-see for someone on a Barcelona 1-day itinerary. It's a fantastic stop when exploring hidden gems in Barcelona. How far is the Penedès Region from Barcelona? How can I get to the Penedès Region from Barcelona?

Catalonia, focusing not only on its past but also how it ties into some of the best things to do in Barcelona Whether you're planning a Barcelona 5 day itinerary or seeking Barcelona day trips that reveal the area's If you’re looking for best things to do in Barcelona, don't miss the well-preserved Roman walls and the So, as you plan your travels, prepare to delve into the hidden gems in Barcelona and beyond. From the heart of Barcelona to the hidden valleys of Catalonia, the journey is yours to shape!

, you can enjoy the daylight hours if you position yourself closer to the Arctic Circle, just where Santa Find out about winter programs in the area where Santa lives: #WinterWonderland #FamilyHolidays #LaplandTours

From exploring the bustling streets of Barcelona to the serene beauty of the Basque Country, Fenix Travel Consider a one-day Barcelona itinerary to enjoy the city’s cultural landmarks and incredible architecture Don't miss the opportunity for a walking tour in Barcelona to fully immerse yourself in its history and allure of the Costa Brava in summer, giving you access to some of the most beautiful beach towns near Barcelona