Valentine's Day in Spain
In Spain, a country full of passion and temperament, Valentine's Day has acquired a special character - intertwining with the rich culture and traditions of this place. Valentine's Day, although global in scope, is celebrated in many unique ways in Spain, with regional customs adding local color.
Valentine's Day in the rhythm of the Spanish carnival
Valentine's Day in Spain falls during the height of the carnival season, so the atmosphere is hot! The carnival attracts people from all over the country and abroad, eager for fun and experiences. Lovers have a unique opportunity to celebrate their feelings among colorful parades, masquerades and dances, which is an amazing background for romantic confessions and gestures.
Traditional celebrations
Modern Valentine's Day celebrations in Spain are a combination of traditional customs and modern ways of expressing feelings. Lovers spend this time on romantic dinners in restaurants, giving each other flowers, sweets and gifts. There are also more personal gestures, such as love letters or joint trips to places that have special meaning for couples.
The legend of Isabela and Diego of Teruel
One of the most moving love stories in Spain is the legend of Isabela and Diego of Teruel. This timeless story of unrequited love and the tragic end of lovers is the heart of many Valentine's Day celebrations. In short, young lovers from different backgrounds could not be together due to the opposition of Isabela's father. Diego, promising to acquire wealth so that he can marry his beloved, goes to war. After five years, he returns rich, but finds Isabel already married. He asks her for a kiss, but she refuses, fearing the sin of betrayal. Diego dies of grief, and Isabel, wanting to kiss him in death, also loses her life. Their graves are in the Church of San Pedro in Teruel, and every year the city comes alive during the "Las Bodas de Isabel de Segura" festival, celebrating the love of the tragically deceased lovers.
Saint George and Sant Dionís Day: Regional versions of love
In addition to the classic Valentine's Day, Spain also celebrates other love holidays which, although not directly related to February 14, carry a similar message. In Catalonia, it is Saint George's Day, celebrated on April 23, when lovers give each other books and roses. In turn, in Valencia, on October 9, Sant Dionís is celebrated, during which marzipan sweets hidden in decorative scarves are traditionally handed out. These regional holidays, although they have different dates and forms, are an expression of deep affection and respect for tradition.
Alternative for singles: El Día de los Solteros
As an interesting fact - on February 13, the day before Valentine's Day, Singles' Day is also celebrated in Spain. It is an opportunity for those who have not yet found their other half to celebrate freedom and independence, often with family and friends.
Summary
Valentine's Day in Spain is not only a day of lovers, but also an opportunity to celebrate the rich culture and traditions of this country. In the rhythm of flamenco and the sounds of guitars, love finds its unique face here - full of passion, joy and passion!
