Saint Nicholas of Myra is the primary inspiration for the Christian figure of Santa Claus. He was a 4th century Christian bishop of Myra in Lycia, a province of the Byzantine Anatolia, now in Turkey. Nicholas was famous for his generous gifts to the poor, in particular presenting the three impoverished daughters of a pious Christian with dowries so that they would not have to become prostitutes. He was very religious from an early age and devoted his life entirely to Christianity. In Europe (more precisely the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria and Germany) he is still portrayed as a bearded bishop in canonical robes. The relics of St. Nicholas were transported to Bariin southern Italy by some enterprising Italian merchants; a basilica was constructed in 1087 to house them and the area became a pilgrimagesite for the devout. Saint Nicholas became claimed as a patron saint of many diverse groups, from archers and children to pawnbrokersand prostitutes. He is also the patron saint of both Amsterdamand Moscow.
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Saint Nicholas of Myra is the primary inspiration for the Christian figure of Santa Claus. He was a 4th century Christian bishop of Myra in Lycia, a province of the Byzantine Anatolia, now in Turkey. Nicholas was famous for his generous gifts to the poor, in particular presenting the three impoverished daughters of a pious Christian with dowries so that they would not have to become prostitutes. He was very religious from an early age and devoted his life entirely to Christianity. In Europe (more precisely the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria and Germany) he is still portrayed as a bearded bishop in canonical robes. The relics of St. Nicholas were transported to Bariin southern Italy by some enterprising Italian merchants; a basilica was constructed in 1087 to house them and the area became a pilgrimagesite for the devout. Saint Nicholas became claimed as a patron saint of many diverse groups, from archers and children to pawnbrokersand prostitutes. He is also the patron saint of both Amsterdamand Moscow.
Thanks for the history.
Have a Merry Christmas.
What a perfect choice for this time of year!
Come visit my Wordless Wednesday if you get a moment! :)
Now i know, thanks for sharing!
Happy WW!
I really love stopping by your space. I always learn so much! Thanks for sharing this picture! Have a great week!
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It's always great to read about customs and where they started. Thanks for the great history! happy ww...
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