LOVE AND TRADITION: DISCOVER VALENTINE’S DAY IN ITALY
Embark on a journey through the enchanting lanes of Rapallo, where the celebration of love is woven into the very fabric of the culture.
In this exploration of Valentine's Day, we unravel Italian traditions that transcend time and embrace the passion that defines amore.
ORIGINS OF LOVE
The roots of Valentine's Day in Italy reach back to ancient Rome, where mid-February marked the festivity of Lupercalia, a celebration of fertility and the imminent arrival of spring. The connection deepened in the Christian era with the poignant tale of St. Valentine, a priest who dared to defy Emperor Claudius II's decree against marriages for young men, believing that love should always prevail.
SYMBOLS OF LOVE
Italy, a country synonymous with romance, decks itself in iconic symbols of love during Valentine's Day. Heart-shaped cards bearing poetic verses and bouquets of vibrant red roses become tokens of affection. The "biglietti d'amore," or love notes, take on a special significance, each handwritten word a testament to profound emotions.
ROMATIC GESTURES
Italian lovers express their ardor with an innate poetic flair. Love letters, adorned with expressive verses and declarations of eternal love, become the heartbeat of the celebration. Couples meander through picturesque landscapes on romantic walks or partake in intimate dinners at charming trattorias, where the ambiance mirrors the passion of the evening.
REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS
In the heart of Italy's romantic landscape is Rapallo, a coastal gem nestled on the Italian Riviera. Couples find themselves enchanted by its historic charm, strolling hand in hand along the Lungomare Vittorio Veneto or enjoying panoramic views from the Santuario di Montallegro. In Rapallo, Valentine's Day becomes an immersive experience, weaving the town's beauty into the romantic celebrations.
CULINARY DELIGHTS
Italian cuisine, known for its love affair with flavors, assumes a prominent role in Valentine's Day celebrations. Candlelit dinners featuring sumptuous dishes and paired with exquisite wines create an ambiance that lingers in the hearts of lovers. In Rapallo, the local trattorias and restaurants add a touch of coastal charm to the gastronomic affair.
MODERN EXPRESSIONS
Contemporary Italy sees Valentine's Day as a cherished occasion. Couples exchange thoughtful gifts, and the streets of Rapallo come alive with cultural events, art exhibitions, and music performances. Each note, each gesture resonates with the timeless theme of love, capturing the essence of amore that defines the celebration.
Here at Villa Porto Rapallo, we embrace this celebration of love, not only on the 14th of February, but every day throughout February. Our exclusive Valentine’s package is available all month, offering guests the ultimate romantic experience, complete with champagne in your penthouse, a romantic guided walk, plus a luxurious romantic meal for two with your very own private chef.
As we traverse the romantic landscape of Italy, Rapallo emerges as a captivating chapter in the story of love. Valentine's Day becomes not merely a date on the calendar but a celebration of the enduring legacy of love. Whether in the handwritten notes or the candlelit dinners, Italy's celebration of love stands as a timeless ode to romance, inviting lovers to immerse themselves in the magic of amore.