A legacy dating from the 4th century
St. Nicholas served as bishop in Demre (ancient Myra) in the 4th century. Known as one of the origins of the "Santa Claus" figure in the Western world, the church bearing his name can be visited today in Antalya's Demre district.
The construction process
The Church of St. Nicholas began construction in AD 520, built on the foundation of an even older church, and was completed in the 11th century. In 1862, the building underwent a major restoration under Russian Tsar Nicholas I.
A separate point from Myra
The church stands roughly 1.6 kilometers from the theatre and rock-cut tomb section of Myra Ancient City in Demre. Although the two stops are often mentioned together, they offer different visiting experiences — one an ancient city ruin, the other a religious monument.
Protected status
The Church of St. Nicholas is on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List. Located in central Demre, it is regularly included alongside Andriake's ancient harbor and the Kekova area in travel itineraries.