How Ancient Egyptians Celebrated Valentine’s Day

Ancient Egyptians were the earliest people to celebrate romance and love due to the great importance of love in their lives.

Moreover, the ancient Egyptian civilization depicted several celebrations of love, which varied between religious and secular occasions. However, love was classified as an astronomy-related occasion.

Many of ancient Egypt's love stories and poetry were recorded on papyrus, as well as tombs and temple walls. The special relations reflecting Pharaohs’ love were expressed by ancient Egyptians in their writings depicting their own passion.

The rituals of celebrations included various costumes such as spreading food, visiting parks, and having picnics.

Green palm leaves symbolized new beginnings as they were borne out of palm trees’ hearts. Also, they created from those fronds various amulets used in funeral rituals, and in securing them against evil.

Another ritual related to festivals is baking cakes to share with people and family members with their simple and cheerful decorations and spread the happiness.

However, this ritual started as a religious celebration, and time it turned into a more secular one.

Contributed by: Rana Atef