image

'Is this Santa Claus' tomb?'': Archaeologists unearth St Nicholas’ grave hidden in Turkey

image

Produced by: Mohsin Shaikh

image

Hidden Tomb

Buried deep in Turkey, a limestone sarcophagus tied to St Nicholas sparks intrigue and mystery.

image

Sacred Clues

Mosaic floors and Byzantine ruins hint at a long-lost holy site, says Associate Professor Ebru Fatma Findik.

image

Buried Legacy

The sarcophagus' design—a raised lid and pitched roof—matches regional burial styles of antiquity.

basilicaITG 1733815758483

Submerged Basilica

An ancient basilica, submerged by the Mediterranean, held the foundation for St Nicholas’ church.

saint nicolasITG 1733815865097

Miracle Saint

Stories depict St Nicholas gifting gold to save three girls from despair, the inspiration for Santa Claus.

SinterklaasITG 1733815908316

Name Evolution

Sinter Klaas,” Dutch for Saint Nicholas, evolved into Santa Claus, preserving the saint’s legacy globally.

image

Historic Search

Electronic surveys revealed voids beneath St Nicholas Church, leading to deeper excavations.

image

UNESCO Treasure

The site, a UNESCO Heritage location since 1982, continues to reveal its historical and spiritual wealth.

Disputed Relics

Archaeologists question if bones in Bari belong to St Nicholas or an anonymous priest, deepening the mystery.