Santa Claus is the most famous and most beloved character among children! Just as he does on his sleigh, his legend has also traveled all over the world! Let’s discover it together:
St. Nicholas was the bishop of the city of Myra, present-day Turkey, who lived between 270 and 343 AD.
He is said to have come from a very wealthy family, but he donated all his wealth to children and the poor. One legend has it that he gave a father with three daughters to marry a bag of coins for the maidens’ dowry, dropping it down the chimney.
To the United States this figure was brought by the Dutch, who called him Sinterklaas (hence Santa Claus). In England, however, he is named Father Christmas, in France Père Noël, and in Germany Weihnachtsmann.
In some Scandinavian countries, Santa Claus is linked to even older traditions, such as the Yule Tomte in Sweden, a protective spirit of homes. In Russia, the figure of Santa Claus is represented by Ded Moroz, who brings presents during the New Year festivities together with his companion Snegurochka, the snow maiden.
Today, the figure of Santa Claus is a global symbol that unites people of all cultures in a time of celebration and hope. Each country has adapted Santa’s image and origin to its own tradition, but whether they call him Santa Claus, Père Noël or Sinterklaas, his message remains the same: the magic of Christmas is about love, generosity and sharing!
Best wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from the whole Finking team !
