Archaeologists in Turkey have made a discovery which could settle a century-old debate and disappoint millions of children around the globe.
They have unearthed what they claim is likely the tomb of the original Santa Claus, or Saint Nicholas, beneath an ancient church in Demre, southern Turkey.
Previously, the remains were believed to have then been smuggled by merchants to the Italian city of Bari, in the year 1087. Christians have been visiting the site of what was thought to be the Saint’s final resting place, in Bari’s Basilica di San Nicola.
Demre, previously named Myra, in the province of Antalya, is believed to be the birthplace of the 4th century bishop.
Cemil Karabayram, the head of Antalya’s Monument Authority, noted the shrine was discovered during electronic surveys that showed gaps beneath the church.
“We believe this shrine has not been damaged at all, but it is quite difficult to get to it as there are mosaics on the floor,” he told the Turkish Hurriyet Daily News.
Karabayram added that he is very optimistic about uncovering Saint Nicholas’s remains, but warned it will take some time to scale each tile one by one and remove them as a whole in a mold.
Professor Sema Dogan, excavation head, was also stunned by the finding and believes the discovery could boost tourism to the area.
At the time of his death in 343 A.D., the Saint was interred at the church in Demre, where he lay undisturbed until the 11th century.
Until now, the remains were believed to have then been smuggled by merchants to the Italian city of Bari, in the year 1087. Christians have been visiting the site of what was thought to be the Saint’s final resting place, in Bari’s Basilica di San Nicola.
Nevertheless, Turkish experts are now claiming the wrong bones were removed, and those taken abroad belong to another local priest, rather than the legendary bishop.
Saint Nicholas of Myra was renowned for his generosity towards children. He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him, a practice celebrated on his feast day, December 6.
He became very popular in 16th century Europe as Father Christmas, who gave presents to young children. Dutch arrivals to the United States called their version of Saint Nicholas “Sinterklaas,” which later became Santa Claus.
He is depicted in modern images as a portly old man sporting a big white beard and spectacles.
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