Church of St. Nicholas (Santa Claus)
Church of St. Nicholas, located in Demre near Antalya, is dedicated to the beloved 4th-century bishop known today as Santa Claus.
This Byzantine church was built over his original burial site and features remarkable frescoes, marble sarcophagi, and ancient mosaics. Pilgrims and visitors still come to honor the saint who inspired centuries of legend.
It is amazingly well-preserved and originally dedicated to St. Nicholas, patron saint of children and seafarers.
The church reflects Byzantine spirituality and remains a sacred stop in Antalya’s religious and cultural landscape.
