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San Nicola

San Nicola of Myra, known to most of the world as St. Nicholas, was a 4th-century bishop from the region of Lycia in modern-day Turkey. Born into a wealthy Christian family, he became known early in life for his generosity and compassion, especially toward the poor and vulnerable. After losing his parents at a young age, he dedicated his inheritance—and his life—to serving others. His reputation for humility and charity spread quickly, and he was eventually appointed Bishop of Myra, where he became a beloved spiritual leader.

Over the centuries, stories of San Nicola’s miracles cemented him as one of the most venerated saints in both the Eastern and Western Christian traditions. One of the most famous tales recounts how he secretly provided gold to three impoverished sisters so they could marry, slipping the coins through their window at night—an act that later inspired the custom of gift-giving. Another legend tells of him calming a violent sea to save shipwrecked sailors, which is why he is considered a protector of sailors, children, merchants, and travelers. His feast day, December 6th, became a major celebration in many parts of Europe long before Christmas traditions existed.

For Italians—especially in the South—San Nicola holds a special place in the heart of the holiday season. Cities like Bari, which houses his relics, honor him with processions, lights, and festivals that blend faith, folklore, and community. In many regions, children once waited for San Nicola, not Babbo Natale, to bring small gifts or treats on his feast day. His legacy of kindness, generosity, and quiet miracles echoes through centuries and across cultures, making him not just a saint, but the spiritual ancestor of the modern Santa Claus.

Special Offer Discount $110 per traveler

Special Offer Discount $110 per traveler

Renaissance to Runway: The Enduring Italian Houses

Presented by the Cleveland Museum of Art

Special tour sponsored by Phil~italy Cultural Exchanges

• Ticket Required so please rsvp at 917.523.9068 asap

• Sunday, January 18th, 2026 2 PM

• Location:  Cleveland Museum of Art, 

• Meet in the Atrium for a pre tour caffè at 2pm.  Tour starts soon after.

Babbo Natale, the Italian version of Santa Claus, is a relatively modern figure compared to ancient saints like San Nicola. His image began spreading through Italy in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, influenced by northern European and American Christmas traditions. With his red suit, white beard, and sleigh full of gifts, Babbo Natale represents the joyful, modern spirit of Christmas—one centered on family gatherings, decorated homes, and the excitement of children waiting for presents on Christmas Eve or Christmas morning.

While Babbo Natale’s look is familiar worldwide, his role in Italian culture blends international imagery with distinctly local traditions. In many families, he coexists with other Italian Christmas figures, such as La Befana, the kindly witch who brings gifts on January 6th. In northern regions, Babbo Natale often arrives alongside San Nicola or local gift-bringers like Santa Lucia. This mix of characters reflects Italy’s rich regional diversity, where old folklore and modern customs intertwine rather than replace one another.

Today, Babbo Natale is embraced across Italy as the cheerful symbol of the holiday season. Children write him letters, towns set up charming Christmas markets with his house or workshop, and families gather for festive meals as they await his nighttime visit. Yet even as Italy adopts global Christmas traditions, Babbo Natale carries a uniquely Italian warmth—rooted in family, community, and the timeless joy of giving.

Presepio Napoletana

The presepio is one of the most cherished and uniquely Italian Christmas traditions, dating back to the Middle Ages and deeply rooted in everyday family life. Unlike the simple nativity sets found elsewhere, Italian presepi are often elaborate miniature worlds—complete with tiny houses, bakeries, shepherds, market stalls, flowing rivers, and star-filled skies. The tradition is usually credited to St. Francis of Assisi, who created the first live nativity in 1223 to help people visualize the humble birth of Jesus. Over the centuries, the presepio evolved into a beloved art form, especially in Naples, where skilled artisans still handcraft detailed figurines known as pastori.

For many Italian families, setting up the presepio is as important as decorating the Christmas tree. It becomes a living scene that grows throughout December, with children often responsible for moving the shepherds closer to the stable each day. The Baby Jesus is placed in the manger only on Christmas Eve, marking the true beginning of the holiday. Whether it’s a simple home display or a grand village installation in a church or town square, the presepio represents more than just the Nativity—it’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the everyday life of Italy woven into the story of Christmas.