Saint Valentine: Ancient priest who became patron saint of lovers

Saint Valentine, the patron saint of lovers whose feast day is celebrated on 14 February, was a Roman priest who aided persecuted Christians before his martyrdom, historical records show.

Valentine was buried in a Christian cemetery on Via Flaminia near Rome’s Ponte Milvio following his death on 14 February in the third century CE.

His remains were initially preserved in the Church and Catacombs of Saint Valentine, a significant medieval pilgrimage site, until their transfer to the Santa Prassede church during Pope Nicholas IV’s pontificate.

The saint’s flower-adorned skull is now displayed at Rome’s Basilica of Santa Maria in Cosmedin, whilst additional relics are housed at the Carmelite Church on Whitefriar Street in Dublin, Ireland, which remains a popular pilgrimage destination.

Today, those celebrating their name day include Valentina, Valentine, Valentinos, Valentini, Dinos and Dina.