How Did the Santa Claus (Our Beloved “Nattal Seeya”) We Know Today Come to Be?

Kids write letters asking for gifts every year… but have you ever wondered how Santa Claus was created?

Even though we call him by many names—Nattal Seeya, Nattal Pappa, Santa—the English name “Santa Claus” actually comes from the name Saint Nicholas. Over the centuries, the pronunciation of Saint Nicholas slowly evolved into Santa Claus.

Why Do Children Love Santa So Much?

When Christmas season comes closer, children wait with so much excitement for Santa to arrive with the gifts they dream about.
For them, Santa’s visit is magical, inspiring, and full of hope.

But… where did Santa’s story really begin?

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The Real Beginning of Santa Claus

Santa’s story begins in Turkey, in a town called Lycia, where a boy named Nicholas was born.
His parents were very wealthy and deeply religious Catholics. Growing up in such a home, Nicholas learned something truly beautiful—
the joy of giving, especially to the poor and helpless.

Even as a child, he shared most of his belongings with children who had nothing. Because of his generous heart, little Nicholas soon became known in his village as a kind, giving, warm-hearted boy.

As he grew older, his faith grew stronger. Eventually, young Nicholas left home to become a priest. Not long after, due to his kindness and good deeds, he became known as Father Nicholas, loved by almost everyone.

His endless generosity towards poor families and struggling children made him one of the most respected religious leaders of his time. Later, he was ordained as a bishop.

The Look That Inspired Today’s Santa

His bright red robes, tall red bishop’s hat, warm winter gloves, and his long white beard and hair gave him a very unique and striking appearance.
This is exactly where the modern image of Santa Claus—the red coat, white beard, warm smile—came from!

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How Santa Spread Across the World

The story of Nicholas first spread across Turkey, then Europe, then America, and eventually all across Asia.
Over time, the kind bishop Nicholas became known worldwide as the symbol of Christmas generosity.

He was finally honored as a Saint, and today he is remembered as the patron saint of:

• the poor
• children
• sailors
• merchants
• bankers
• and even those hoping for love or marriage!

So it’s no surprise that after his death, his name lived on through the beloved figure we know today as Santa Claus.

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So… Why Not Send Your Message to Santa Too?

Just like millions of children around the world, you can also write your hope, your wish, or your dream—and send your message to Santa this Christmas!

Because sometimes…
a little hope is the best gift of all.