Search results
Saint Nicholas of Myra (traditionally 15 March 270 – 6 December 343), also known as Nicholas of Bari, was an early Christian bishop of Greek descent from the maritime city of Patara in Anatolia (in modern-day Antalya Province, Turkey) during the time of the Roman Empire.
Saint Nicholas, one of the most popular minor saints who is now traditionally associated with the festival of Christmas. In many countries children receive gifts on December 6, St. Nicholas Day. He is one of the patron saints of children and of sailors.
- The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
- Saint Nicholas is one of the most popular saints commemorated in the Eastern and Western churches, and he is now traditionally associated with the...
- Saint Nicholas was known for his generosity and kindness, which gave rise to legends of miracles he performed for the poor and unhappy. As a result...
- According to tradition, Saint Nicholas was born in the ancient Lycian seaport city of Patara and, while still young, traveled to Palestine and Egyp...
- Dutch families took the tradition of celebrating the feast day of Saint Nicholas with them to New Amsterdam in the American colonies, beginning as...
- The relics of Saint Nicholas have been reported to emit a sweet-smelling substance ever since they were transferred from Turkey during the 11th cen...
Dec 6, 2023 · Saint Nicholas was a Christian bishop who helped the needy. After his death, the legend of his gift-giving grew. Saint Nicholas transformed into the legendary character called Santa Claus, who...
- editor@biography.com
- Staff Editorial Team And Contributors
People also ask
When is St Nicholas Day?
Why was Saint Nicholas important in Holland?
Where was Saint Nicholas born?
When is St Nicholas' Day celebrated in Serbia?
Learn about the life, miracles, and legacy of St. Nicholas, the fourth-century bishop of Myra who became the model for Santa Claus. Discover how he helped the poor, the needy, the children, and the sailors with his generosity and prayers.
Dec 22, 2014 · Learn about the life and legacy of St. Nicholas, the fourth-century Christian monk who became the inspiration for Santa Claus. Discover how his stories spread across Europe and America, and how he was venerated as a saint.
Dec 25, 2018 · Learn how the ancient Greek bishop St. Nicholas became the modern American Santa Claus, with a facial reconstruction, a sleigh, and a North Pole workshop. Explore the cultural and historical influences that shaped the evolution of this Christmas icon.
St. Nicholas Day, feast day (December 6) of St. Nicholas, the 4th-century bishop of Myra. St. Nicholas is the patron saint of Russia and Greece, of a number of cities, and of sailors and children, among many other groups, and was noted for his generosity. Some countries celebrate St. Nicholas Day on December 5.