Red roses, jewellery, heart shaped chocolates and the cutest teddy bears. Spicy lingerie, candlelit dinners and cards bearing “I love you’s” (or other more ingenious declarations of affection) .
On February 14th, lovers (actual and aspiring) around the world, take the opportunity to express their love and undying devotion in in all sorts of -often- imaginative and resourceful, ways.
But why this day? How did February 14th become a contemporary feast of love?
The prevalent version nowadays favors the story of St. Valentine -the day is named in his honour after all. Valentine was a Roman priest, in fact the patron of epileptics. He and St Mario continued to marry Christian couples, in defiance of Claudius Gothicus’s decree. The cruel Emperor was having a hard time drafting soldiers for his military campaigns. He attributed this to men being reluctant to leave their loved ones and their families behind to go to war, so he banned marriage. The two priests were arrested, tortured and killed for their actions. While Mario has been more or less relegated to oblivion, Valentine is lavishly celebrated every year on February 14th, which is allegedly the day of his death.
A short historical overview however demonstrates that this celebration is a remnant of ancient pagan customs. Centuries before Christ, the Romans on the same dates (13th-15th February) held a pagan sensual feast in honour of Luperkus, Wolf Hunter, that is. During the so called “Lupercalia” it was customary to exchange gifts between loved ones. Yet much more than this, through a series of rites and ceremonies, the celebrations often culminated into fully blown orgies!
This tradition was brought to England via the Romans. It was eventually banished when Christianity became the prevalent state religion, only to be replaced by the celebration of St. Valentine’s Day. This feast hence in effect hails from an age-old Pagan custom which has received a Christian “make over” and “modern” ways of expression!
There is also an alternative explanation as to why this day has come to be regarded as the most romantic of the year, based on the ancient belief that birds begin to mate specifically on February 14th.
Whether you choose the pagan, Christian or naturalistic version, one thing is for certain: Romance is in the air.
So why waste this first rate opportunity to celebrate with your darling, in one of the most romantic destinations of the world?
Infamous for its relaxed atmosphere and happy, good vibes, the long sandy, beautiful Panormos cove is favoured by the international “It” crowd. At this select, premium location you’ll find Mykonos Panormos Villas: An exclusive retreat consisting of different sized luxury villas -from the expansive 5 bedroom ‘Anassa” to the cozier 1 bedroom villas with a private pool. Mykonos Panormos Villas is in fact renowned not only for its immaculate aesthetic, but furthermore for its high level of personalized, tailor made services. Their philosophy is distinctly oriented towards the pampering of their guests. Whether it’s an in house massage, child care, an on call driver or a private chef to prepare a fabulous candlelit meal in your villa, you‘ll soon find that your wish is indeed their command.
Experience romance in Mykonos Panormos honeymoon villa
The newest addition to the Mykonos Panormos villa collection is the 1 bedroom villas with private pools, uninterrupted sea views, sleek design and furnishings and plenty of interior and exterior lounging space. Just like the larger villas, the 1 bedroom villas have access to a 24hr concierge service, 24hr driving services, room service and endless tailor made options, including in house massages, customisable breakfast served daily in your villa, private excursions to Delos, private guided tours, luxury boat rental or even canoeing and kite sailing, for the more adventurous ones. Should you wish to spoil your beloved rotten on this Valentine’s Day, Mykonos Panormos Villas is certainly one of your best bets .