~ Legend & Lore ~
The heart is the most common symbol of romantic love.
Ancient cultures believed the human soul lived in the heart ~ others thought it to be the source of emotions and intelligence.
Throughout pre-Christian and early Christian eras, some believed the heart embodied a man's truth, strength, nobility and was the center of emotion.
During the 16th century and the Baroque period (1600 - 1750), the heart was recognized as a sign of sincerity and devotion.
The heart may be associated with love, because the ancient Greeks believed it was the target of Eros, known as cupid to the Romans.
Anyone shot in the heart by one of Cupid's arrows would fall hopelessly in love.
Because the heart is so closely linked to love, it's red color is thought to be the most romantic.
In many nations around the world today, the heart is the primary symbol of St. Valentine's Day, a holiday celebrating love. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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