St. Nicholas and Demre St. Nicholas Church

The saints who are considered as holy persons in Christianity lived in various regions of Anatolia. One of these saints is Nicolas who is basic subject of our studying and he lived in Demre region of Antalya. He appears in front of us as a religious character portrayed as Santa Claus figure especially in west. Saint Nicolas helped local people and the people in different regions with his miracles that he showed and strengthen their belief in Christianity. His miracles he showed , they have been effective in his being recognized. Especially, he is accepted from the great saints by Orthodox Church . In western societies, Santa Claus who is described as benevolent, helpful and lover of children has been identified with Saint Nicolas by the influence of pagan culture. Especially in 20th and 21 st century, by the changing society dynamics and the influence of economic purposes, Santa Claus has become the consumption tool of the society. As he described he didn't live at the poles , he lived in hot climate regions of the Mediterranean. A church was built in the name of Saint Nicolas in Demre town of Antalya, which has a coast to Mediterranean. Historical artifacts in the Saint Nicolas Church and depictions on the church wall show it's originality architecturally. Orthodox Christians accept Demre Saint Nicolas Church as a pilgrimage center. The church's being a center of pilgrimage has contributed to the area where the church is located especially tourism, economically, socially and culturally. Key Words: Saint Nicolas, Demre, Miracle, Santa Claus, Church