Valentine's Day is celebrated in different ways all over the world on 14th February. But did you know that Valentine’s Day originated from a centuries- old Italian tradition?
In the Italian city of Terni (Umbria), Bishop Valentino allowed Christians to marry pagans. The Emperor of the time did not agree with this practice of marrying “lovers” and Valentino of Terni paid for this with his life: He was beheaded in the year 269 BC.
To this day he is still regarded as the patron saint of lovers.
On Valentine’s Day, lovers in Italy often meet up near water or on bridges. They attach padlocks with their initials to bicycle stands or railings and throw the keys into the water, while making a wish. You are not allowed to say what you have wished for – but most people wish for eternal love.
Why not surprise your loved one with a romantic mini-break to Bella Italia? Helvetic Airways flies several times a week from Zurich to Apulia – don’t forget to take your padlock with you!
