Many people think of Italy as the country of love and romance. While not every Italian is romantic, there are some fantastic romantic traditions for Valentine’s Day that are derived from the Italian culture. If you are looking for inspiration for how to make your Valentine’s Day romantic this year, then here are some of the romantic Italian Valentine’s Day traditions.
Italian Gifts
Just like in the United States and the UK, it is a tradition in Italy to give a gift to the person you love on Valentine’s Day. Flowers and jewelry are popular choices, but the most typical gift given is chocolate. In Italy, they often opt for chocolates made by Baci Perugina as this brand is associated with love and romance. This company makes special edition chocolates in honor of Valentine’s Day. They are wrapped in red foil, have a red cherry liquor filling, and contain a romantic message written in four languages.
Kiss Under a Bridge
The Venetians believe that if you kiss while you are passing under a bridge, then your love will last forever. With this in mind, a romantic boat trip may be the perfect way to spend time with your loved one and show them just how much you care this Valentine’s Day.
Attach a Padlock to a Bridge
There are many bridges in Italy where you can attach a padlock as a symbol of eternal love. Some of these include the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Ponte Milvio in Rome, and the Ponte Vecchio in Florence. If you do not want to take a trip to Italy to follow this romantic tradition, there are many other places in the world where you can make this romantic gesture. Paris is well-known for its love lock bridges and the tradition is also followed at Brooklyn Bridge in New York City.
Lovers in Camogli
Camogli is a pretty coastal town in Liguria, Italy, and Valentine’s Day is a very special event to the locals. They hold an annual festival on this day called ‘Innamorati a Camogli’, which translates as ‘Lovers in Camogli’. One of the highlights of this festival is the plate painting competition. The plates are lined up along the seafront and then judged by a jury panel. There is the option to buy one if you see a plate that you like. If you can’t afford a trip to Liguria for Valentine’s Day, then take inspiration and design a plate that captures the essence of your relationship and give this as a gift.
Visit St. Valentine’s Hometown
For a real treat, consider taking a romantic break together to the town where St. Valentine was born. Terni is a small town in Umbria and not only was St. Valentine born there, he is also now buried just outside the city walls. A St. Valentine’s Feast takes place outside the Basilica di San Valentino each year and this hosts a variety of events. There is even an award for a special act of love.
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