Has the Sarcophagus of St Nicholas been found at St. Nicholas Church in Turkey!
Recent excavations at the Church of St. Nicholas in Demre, Antalya, Turkey, have brought a fascinating revelation to light: a limestone sarcophagus believed to be the original burial site of Saint Nicholas, the 4th-century Greek bishop whose generosity and kindness gave rise to the beloved legend of Santa Claus.
A Closer Look at the Discovery
This find is part of the ongoing “Legacy for the Future Project,” led by Associate Professor Ebru Fatma Findik from Hatay Mustafa Kemal University and supported by Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism. The sarcophagus, uncovered in a two-storey annex of the church, measures roughly two metres in length and was buried at a depth of 1.5 to 2 metres. Its design, featuring a raised lid and pitched roof, aligns with burial styles of the period, enhancing the likelihood that this could indeed be the saint’s final resting place.
The Church of St. Nicholas, constructed in the 5th century CE on the orders of Byzantine Emperor Theodosius II, further supports the connection. If this sarcophagus proves to be authentic, it marks an extraordinary step in confirming the true burial site of the revered figure.
Dr. Findik expressed optimism about what further excavations might reveal, saying, “Our biggest hope is to find an inscription on the sarcophagus. This would help clarify the burial contents and allow us to determine the exact period it dates from.”
Photo Credit: Sinan Şahin, CC BY 3.0
A Journey Through History
Saint Nicholas lived in Myra during the 4th century CE and served as its bishop. Renowned for his acts of generosity and miraculous intercessions, he passed away in 343 CE. His remains were later moved to the Church of St. Nicholas, constructed atop his original burial site.
Over time, his relics were dispersed across Europe. In the 11th century, the majority of his bones were taken to the Basilica di San Nicola in Bari, Italy, while other parts were sent to Venice during the First Crusade. Scientific analyses in 1953 confirmed that bones from both locations belonged to the same individual, though it remains uncertain if they were indeed Saint Nicholas himself.
Photo Credit: Sjoehes, CC BY-SA 3.0
The Ongoing Excavations
Excavations at the Church of St. Nicholas have been underway since 1989, with the latest phase beginning two years ago. Besides the sarcophagus, researchers have uncovered fragments of clay lamps and animal bones, further evidencing the area’s historic use as a burial site.
Dr. Findik remarked, “The fact that we have found a sarcophagus near the church, thought to house his tomb, may indicate that this is indeed the sacred area we have been searching for.”
A Legacy That Lives On
The significance of this discovery extends far beyond the realms of archaeology. Saint Nicholas, celebrated as the patron saint of children and sailors, remains a cherished figure worldwide, with his legacy honoured each December.
As the excavation progresses, the prospect of uncovering more definitive evidence about Saint Nicholas’s life and burial continues to inspire scholars and believers alike. This find not only sheds light on an enduring historical mystery but also reconnects us with the roots of a story that has touched countless hearts across generations.