The World’s First Love Letter Was Written in Ancient Mesopotamia

Their love story was one of forbidden longing—a priestess and a king, bound by passion. Set in the glorious age of the Sumerians, one of Mesopotamia’s most sophisticated civilizations, their tale represents love in its most intimate and powerful form.

Legend has it that the beautiful priestess Enlil fell in love with King Shu-Sin of Sumer. One day, she caught his attention, and soon, a powerful connection blossomed between them. The pair decided to marry, and on their wedding day, Enlil carved her emotions into stone—literally—creating the first known love poem in history, written in cuneiform script on a clay tablet.

“Bridegroom, my heart’s delight, your beauty is sweet, like honey… You have captivated me—before you, I tremble…” So began the letter, a raw and poetic expression of her passion and reverence for her beloved. Her words celebrated the transformative power of love, illuminating how such feelings can make the world more beautiful.

The letter quickly spread throughout the kingdom, becoming a timeless symbol of mutual affection and deep emotional devotion. Later unearthed during excavations, the tablet left modern scholars in awe—a testament to love’s ancient roots and enduring power.

Like the Crane Bird: A Symbol of Eternal and Monogamous Love

But true love in ancient Mesopotamia wasn’t expressed through letters alone. It also took form in the sacred symbols of the era, one of the most profound being the crane bird.

Known for their lifelong devotion to a single partner, cranes became symbols of purity, loyalty, faithfulness, and enduring love. Their elegant silhouettes and unwavering bond inspired legends, songs, and poems for centuries, becoming a treasured part of cultural heritage across fertile Mesopotamian lands.

In Turkish mythology, they were associated with the Sky God. In Japanese tradition, cranes were believed to bring happiness to newlyweds. These mystical birds—symbols of love in harmony—have also inspired many of Luna Merdin’s talismanic collections, transforming ancient meanings into handcrafted, wearable treasures.

The Perfect Valentine’s Gift: Ancient Symbols of True Love

Drawing inspiration from the sacred lands where the Euphrates and Tigris rivers meet, Luna Merdin transforms symbols of ancient love into timeless keepsakes. Each piece is imbued with emotion, crafted by hand, and charged with the energy of tradition.

Our Malachite Crane Filigree Ring—featuring delicate filigree and natural stones—is one of our top gift suggestions for Valentine’s Day, blending spiritual protection with heartfelt romance.

Looking for something truly unique? Discover the Crane Woven Bangle, crafted using traditional Mardin wirework—a symbol of lasting commitment and beauty.

To invite peace and harmony into your love life, explore our Lapis Crane Necklace and Lapis Crane Filigree Ring. With lapis believed to enhance communication and emotional clarity, and the crane standing for fidelity, these pieces make meaningful,love-filled gifts.

Celebrate Every Moment on the Journey from Heart to Heart

Let ancient love legends guide your modern expressions of affection. Adorn yourself—or your beloved—with the mystical symbols of true, unwavering love. Browse Luna Merdin’s Valentine’s Day collection now and discover the power of love turned into talismanic beauty.