A Christmas miracle? Archaeologists uncover tomb of 'Santa Claus' inspiration Saint Nicholas

Archeologists have discovered what they believe to be the tomb of Saint Nicholas, the philanthropic Greek bishop and inspiration behind Christmas icon Santa Claus.

The six-foot-long limestone sarcophagus was found buried 6 feet deep within the two-story annex of St. Nicholas Church in Demre, Antalya, Turkey. Long considered the final resting place of the Saint, excavations have been underway here since 1989 - but this latest find is the most intriguing yet. 

The project was led by Ebru Fatma Findik, an Associate Professor at Hatay Kemal University, as part of the 'Legacy for the Future Project'. 

“The fact we have found a sarcophagus near the church, which is thought to house his tomb, may indicate that this is indeed the sacred area we have been searching for,” Findik said. “This is a significant archaeological confirmation of historical sources regarding the burial place of St Nicholas."

While its location lends credibility to the tomb belonging to Saint Nicholas, the research team are now hoping to find an inscription that might reveal more details about who was inside. 

Speaking to Türkiye Today, Findik said: “Our biggest hope is to find an inscription on the sarcophagus. This would help clarify the burial contents and allow us to determine the exact period it dates from.” 

So far, only the tomb’s lid has been completely uncovered, with a small section of the burial chamber visible. The team are planning further excavations in the coming months to find more clues. 

Born some time after 260 A.D. in Myra (now the Demre district of Antalya, Turkey), Saint Nicholas was an early Christian bishop and patron saint of children and sailors. He became idolised for his kindness and generosity, tales of him giving money to those less