In Turkey, archaeologists have discovered a casket said to be that of the first Santa Claus. Naturally, we are referring to the early Christian bishop Saint Nicholas,
Who served as the inspiration for the cheerful Christmas presenter-giver, rather than the reindeer-owning, sleigh-driving Santa.
Since 1989, scholars have been excavating the St Nicholas Church in Demre, Antalya, Turkey, which is thought to be the last burial place of Saint Nichols of Myra (now Demre), who died in 343 AD.
In addition to being Greek, he served as the inspiration for Sinterklaas, a similar Dutch holiday character, and Santa Claus.
The bishop reportedly gave to the poor, even spending his fortune on aiding those in need, according to history.
