Every year, on February 14, the world celebrates love. But in Portugal, Valentine’s Day is not limited to a single date or a simple exchange of gifts. It is part of a deeper continuity, shaped by gestures, traditions, and symbols passed down from generation to generation.
Here, love is expressed as much through words as through hands. It is shared around a table, whispered in a letter, stitched into fabric. It is sincere, sometimes imperfect, always profoundly human.
Let’s dive into how the Portuguese honor love on this deeply romantic day.
An ancient love story that became universal
The tradition of Valentine’s Day in Portugal dates back several centuries, but it truly gained momentum during the 20th century.
As in many countries, this celebration is associated with a Christian priest from the 3rd century who became the patron saint of lovers.
Under the name Saint Valentine, history actually refers to several Christian martyrs from the 3rd century. The most famous is believed to be Valentine of Rome, a priest during the reign of Emperor Claudius II.
At that time, Rome was engaged in constant warfare. The emperor believed that married soldiers made poorer fighters—too attached, too human.
He therefore banned marriages.
Valentine refused this vision. He continued to secretly marry couples, convinced that love was stronger than imperial decrees.
Discovered, imprisoned, and executed around the year 269, he became a symbol of resistance… in the name of love.
Shared experiences, more than formal dates
Of course, romantic dinners hold a special place. But Valentine’s Day in Portugal is also about experiencing something together.
Intimate concerts, cultural events, film screenings, dance evenings…
Everything contributes to creating a warm, gentle atmosphere, perfect for quiet conversations.
Some couples even choose to gift themselves a suspended moment: a private cruise on the Tagus River, a glass in hand, watching Lisbon glow at sunset. A simple moment—yet unforgettable.
Sunset over the Tagus River – Photo credit Voyage Way
Gestures that matter more than words
Beyond gifts, romantic gestures play an essential role during Valentine’s Day in Portugal. Couples express their love more openly—through poems, handwritten letters, or heartfelt messages.
The table, the beating heart of Valentine’s Day
In Portugal, gastronomy plays a central role in Valentine’s Day celebrations. Couples often gather in elegant restaurants to share a candlelit dinner.
View over Porto – Photo credit PortoBay
Special menus highlight the delights of Portuguese cuisine, such as bacalhau (salt cod) and beloved local pastries like pastéis de nata.
Offering a symbol, not just a gift
Exchanging gifts remains a strong tradition. But once again, symbolism matters more than extravagance.
Jewelry, flowers, chocolates… Red roses, symbols of passion, are still very popular.
Among the most emblematic gifts, the Coração de Viana—especially in filigree—holds a very special place. More than a piece of jewelry, it is a true love talisman, deeply rooted in Portuguese identity.
The Lenço dos Namorados: love stitched into fabric
A unique tradition associated with Valentine’s Day in Portugal is the “Valentine’s Handkerchief,” also known as a courtship handkerchief, conversation handkerchief, or love handkerchief—called the Lenço dos Namorados.
Originating in Vila Verde, in northern Portugal near the Spanish border, this finely embroidered linen or cotton handkerchief reflects a strong local tradition, especially in Viana do Castelo, Telões, Guimarães, and Aboim da Nóbrega.
Vila Verde – Photo credit Victor Oliveira
The origins of these handkerchiefs date back to the 17th and 18th centuries, linked to Portuguese nobility, who adorned their garments with lace and embroidery. Village women later adopted this tradition, creating handkerchiefs as symbols of love and commitment.
They were offered to the chosen beloved and served both as proof of affection and as a protective talisman.
Traditional Portuguese costume – Photo credit Northern Portugal
The square scarves, richly embroidered with symbolic motifs, were originally stitched in cross-stitch. Over time, additional techniques were introduced, creating truly unique pieces.
Lenço dos Namorados, 1902 – Photo credit University of Porto
These handkerchiefs were worn publicly by the beloved man, signaling the beginning of a relationship. They often featured inscriptions, names, and dates, adding a deeply personal touch.
Lenço dos Namorados – Photo credit Bordados
Over time, spelling evolved. What began as phonetic errors later became intentional, adding a nostalgic and poetic dimension to these handcrafted pieces.
Linen Lenços dos Namorados – Luisa Paixão Collection
Today, Valentine’s handkerchiefs continue to symbolize love and commitment in Portugal, blending tradition and creativity into a textile rich in history and emotion.
Their distinctive motifs are now reinterpreted by Portuguese artisans, paying tribute to this centuries-old tradition.
Namorados Gift Set – Luisa Paixão Collection