AUDIO: SANTA’S GRAVE DISCOVERED IN TURKEY
Archeologists believe they may have uncovered the tomb of Saint Nicholas underneath an ancient church in Turkey. Saint Nicholas, the inspiration for Santa Claus, passed away on December 6, 343 AD, and was allegedly buried at the 6th century church located in the small coastal town of Demre. But his alleged tomb was not found until 2017 when archeologists using modern electronic equipment discovered a crypt five feet beneath the church’s current marble floor. They recently dug down to the original floor, and discovered the tomb. St. Nicholas is believed to have been born 270 years after Jesus and lived in Demre for most of his life. He dedicated his life to helping the poor and needy, and even spent his own inheritance on the cause. He was particularly known for his secret gift giving and gained a reputation for leaving coins in people’s shoes. (* So, Santa Claus was basically a secret stalker with a shoe fetish. Good to know.) St. Nicholas’ kindness became legend over the centuries and he was later popularized as Father Christmas, who gives presents to children. The Dutch called him “Sinterklaas” and, when they settled in America, the name transformed into Santa Claus.
* They’re pretty sure it’s his tomb. There was an inflatable yard snowglobe stored next to the body.
* Plus a plate with ancient cookie crumbs and a glass with a few drops of dried milk at the bottom.
* When they said Santa Claus’ body was found in Turkey, I thought we were getting a Thanksgiving-Christmas crossover story.
* I’d have a little more faith in this story if they had found the bones in the church’s chimney.
* How can they be sure it’s the real St. Nicholas and not one of his helpers, who maybe worked in a 6th century department store.
CLIP: Our classic “Santa’s Death Certificate.”
