Valentine's Day in Spain
In Spain, a country brimming with passion and temperament, Valentine's Day has taken on a special character, intertwined with the rich culture and traditions of the place. Although global in scope, Valentine's Day is celebrated in Spain in many unique ways, with regional customs adding local flavor.
Valentine's Day in the rhythm of the Spanish carnival
Valentine's Day in Spain falls during the height of Carnival season, so the atmosphere is heated! Carnival attracts people from all over the country and abroad, eager for fun and excitement. Lovers have a unique opportunity to celebrate their feelings amid colorful parades, masquerades, and dances, providing a stunning backdrop for romantic declarations and gestures.
Traditional celebrations
Modern Valentine's Day celebrations in Spain combine traditional customs with modern expressions of affection. Lovers spend this time enjoying romantic dinners at restaurants, exchanging flowers, sweets, and gifts. More personal gestures are also common, such as love letters and joint trips to places that hold special significance for the couple.
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 lovers' tragic end is at the heart of many Valentine's Day celebrations. In short, the young lovers, from different backgrounds, were prevented from being together due to Isabela's father's opposition. Diego, promising to become wealthy so he could marry his beloved, went off to war. Five years later, he returned wealthy, but found Isabel already married. He asked her for a kiss, but she refused, fearing the sin of betrayal. Diego died of grief, and Isabel, wanting to kiss him after his death, also lost her life. Their graves are located in the Church of San Pedro in Teruel, and each 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 Saint Dionís Day: Regional versions of love
In addition to the classic Valentine's Day, Spain also celebrates other love holidays that, while not directly related to February 14th, carry a similar message. In Catalonia, it's Saint George's Day, celebrated on April 23rd, when lovers exchange books and roses. In Valencia, on October 9th, Saint Dionís is celebrated, during which people traditionally give marzipan sweets hidden in decorative scarves. These regional celebrations, 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 a fun fact, on February 13th, the day before Valentine's Day, Spain also celebrates Singles' Day. It's an opportunity for those who haven't yet found their soulmate to celebrate freedom and independence, often with family and friends.
Summary
Valentine's Day in Spain is not only a celebration of love, but also an opportunity to celebrate the country's rich culture and traditions. Amid the rhythm of flamenco and the sounds of guitars, love finds its unique face – full of passion, joy, and passion!
