Santa Claus comes from Turkey. Myra.

Near Antalya tourism are the ruins of Myra, lycia thriving city that became the place where St. Nicholas lived, served as bishop and died. The saint most beloved by children was born in Patara, but gave all his wealth to the poor and devoted his life to protecting the neediest, especially, concern was known for helping children. Over time, his figure has given rise to the tradition of Santa Claus, one of the most beloved children who devoted much effort during his lifetime. Nowadays, the remains of the basilica where he was buried is destination of many visitors, among which a large number of Russian pilgrims. In Myra we can admire one of the best sets of Lycian tombs carved into the rock of the mountain and a Roman theater in very good condition.

St. Nicholas was born in 270 within a wealthy family Patara. His parents died when he was very young and inherited a large fortune. He soon became known for helping those in need that could, especially children. His dedication cost him the fortune he had received and decided to move to the nearby city of Myra. There he was appointed bishop and suffered persecution until the arrival of Emperor Constantine. St. Nicholas participated in the Council of Nicea and continued traveling and evangelizing even when he was older. His habit of giving gifts to children is the origin of the tradition of Santa Claus, also known as Papa Noel. He was buried in his city, where he had built a basilica in his honor. When the Turks conquered the whole area in the late twelfth century, great concern among Christians spread fortunate who might be the remains of the saint. Amid the confusion, some Italian sailors took the bones of St. Nicholas and took them to Bari, which still remain. St. Nicholas is one of the most venerated saints in the Orthodox world along with San Juan. He has over 2000 temples with their name in the world and is the patron of Russia.

To visit the ruins of Myra, have to go to the Turkish town of Demre, about 150 Km all the crops Antalya and 50 Km before reaching Kas. If we are in the latter city, There are boats that take us to Demre also visiting Kekova. In Demre have two points of interest, Basilica of St. Nicholas in the center of town and the ruins of Myra, north of town. Given the Orthodox veneration for St. Nicholas, the place is visited by thousands of Russians traveling from their vacation spots in nearby Antalya for the place where the saint was buried and where restoration is being funded by capital of the country with the consent of the Turkish government.

The basilica is located below the current level of the city because earthquakes and floods buried the area on several occasions. The building retains its mosaic floor and the tomb where he was buried the holy. If we agree with our visit we can check visitors Orthodox veneration and respect with which they come to the place, many women are covered and everyone is trying to touch the grave. At the entrance of the monument found a sculpture which represents Saint Nicholas and his devotion is mentioned for helping children.

The city of Myra was one of the most prosperous in the federation lycia. With the arrival of the Romans, retained its importance and at the tombs of ancient kings carved into the mountain rock, you can visit a theater in very good condition. If we enjoyed the view of those curious tombs Kiddle, Fethiye, etc., here is where we find the largest set of them. The tombs are located in two groups, one after the Roman theater and the second in the nearby hill to the left.

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