“All you need is love. But a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” Charles M. Schulz you’re right!
From Olmecs to Aztecs to Mayas: Legends from the West
It is believed that the Olmecs were the first indigenous cultures to have used the Cacao tree since theobromine, the stimulant compound found in Chocolate and tea, was discovered in a vessel.
The Mayans and Aztecs believed that Cacao was given to them by their gods. Both indigenous cultures enjoyed the enriched beverage, either hot or cold. Unlike the modern sweet renditions of this drink, the Mayas and Aztecs drank spiced Chocolate.
Xocolatl for the Aztecs or Kakaw for the Mayas was mainly consumed by the upper class; the lower class consumed it during weddings or special celebrations.
During the conquest, many of the valuable goods in the Americas, including Cacao, began to be exported to Europe. By the late 1500s, it was a much-loved delicacy. The indigenous peoples of the Americas might have loved the spicy kick of Cacao, but the Europeans preferred sweeter versions that included cane sugar, cinnamon, and other spices.
St. Valentine legends of the East: Was it the Christians or the Pagans?
Chocolate might have started in the West with a history rooted in indigenous cultures, but where did the anticipated love fest day originate? Interestingly enough, Valentine’s Day as we know it today contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition.
One Legend has it that Valentine was a priest that served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers that those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Despite the Emperor’s decree, Valentine continued to perform marriages of young lovers in secret but when his actions were discovered he was put to death. Another tale states that it was Saint Valentine of Terni, beheaded by Claudius II, who is the true Valentine.
May it have been the Christians celebrating love or the pagans celebrating lupercalia, in the middle of February? This day of love endured the times and today we celebrate it with much excitement.
Celebrating the Month of Love in Belize:
Embrace love with our English-speaking multicultural and endearing people in Belize. Travel through the past as you experience chocolate-making the ancient Maya way as you and your special person create sweet everlasting memories together.
