Saint Valentine’s key is a charm used in the province of Padua, Italy. It is a metal key named after Saint Valentine, the patron saint not only of love and marriage but also of epilepsy, traditionally known as Saint Valentine's Malady. It was once common in southern Germany, eastern Switzerland, Austria, and northern Italy to appeal to him to heal the latter condition, known for that reason as Saint Valentine's affliction. The key is gifted as a romantic symbol and an invitation to "unlock the giver's heart".