In the Footsteps of St Nicholas – Memorial Sites in Europe and Beyond

Located in the heart of the Gheorgheni Basin, Gheorgheni holds a special place in honouring Saint Nicholas, as the town itself bears his name. Its charming centre, the Tarisznyás Márton Museum, and the cultural heritage of the surrounding villages offer a glimpse into Székely traditions. The nearby forests, stream valleys, and hillsides provide excellent hiking opportunities in every season.

The town places increasing importance on the long-term preservation of natural assets: the responsible development of active tourism, the involvement of local communities, and the protection of the natural environment all serve the goal of maintaining Gheorgheni's peaceful and liveable character. Here, 6 December is not just about extravagant gift-giving but a day of community remembrance and value-based celebration.

Image source: https://www.gheorgheni.ro

Today’s Demre stands on the site of ancient Myra – the episcopal seat of Saint Nicholas in the 4th century. The city’s most famous attraction is the Church of Saint Nicholas, which evokes the atmosphere of the early Christian world with its Byzantine frescoes and mosaics. On 6 December, religious commemorations focus entirely on the historical saint.

Demre is set in a unique natural environment, near the Lycian coastline and protected wetlands. Sustainable heritage tourism here serves both the preservation of archaeological sites and the protection of habitats. Thus, the celebration is not only a spiritual experience but also a demonstration of respect for cultural and natural heritage.

Image source: Wikipedia

Bari is one of the most important European centres of the Saint Nicholas cult, as the saint’s relics have rested in the Basilica of San Nicola since 1087. On 6 December, the city honours Saint Nicholas with festive masses, processions, and ecumenical gatherings attended by both Catholic and Orthodox pilgrims.

Preserving the historic old town and protecting the coastal environment are integral parts of Bari’s tourism strategy. Here, the celebration remains a religious and cultural event: the experience of quiet reflection, remembrance, and togetherness takes centre stage, rather than consumerism.

According to Bari’s traditions, on 6 December, Saint Nicholas Day, life begins early around the Basilica of San Nicola and Bari Vecchia (Old Bari): the basilica opens its doors during the night for the first festive mass at around five in the morning. After the mass, the narrow streets of the old town offer a cosy “winter market” atmosphere: locals prepare hot chocolate, sgagliozze (fried polenta slices), and other typical Bari Christmas treats. The celebrations continue throughout the day, culminating in the torchlit Nicolai procession, the ceremonial lighting of the Christmas tree in Piazza del Ferrarese, and fireworks launched from the Sant’Antonio pier, creating a Saint Nicholas Day experience that blends faith, community, and gastronomy.

Image source: Wikipedia

In the Netherlands, Saint Nicholas is celebrated as “Sinterklaas”, depicted in bishop’s attire with a staff – not as Santa Claus. According to legend, he arrives in the country by ship, and his arrival is marked by parades, children’s events, and storytelling performances that emphasise themes of kindness, justice, and community responsibility.

In recent years, the city has consciously reshaped the celebration of the tradition: the focus is on cultural heritage, experiences, and sustainable event planning, rather than commercial aspects. The Sinterklaas programmes provide a great example of how a popular tradition can be preserved in a modern, responsible way.

Image source: iamserdam.com

In the Bay of Kotor, Saint Nicholas is primarily remembered as the patron saint of sailors. In the old town’s Saint Nicholas Church, ceremonies are held in early December to honour sailors and their families, often accompanied by smaller maritime processions.

Kotor’s strict heritage protection rules – particularly due to its UNESCO World Heritage status – balance tourism traffic with the preservation of natural values. The celebration here is quiet, spiritual and community-focused, fitting the town’s restrained, historical atmosphere.

Image source: https://depositphotos.com/

In Poland, Święty Mikołaj has remained a bishop saint. In Lublin, churches hold masses on 6 December, while schools and cultural centres organise traditional activities to recall Saint Nicholas’s story, with a special emphasis on selflessness and supporting those in need.

The city’s conscious heritage preservation and cultural tourism strategy protect its medieval old town. The feast day aligns with this approach: it serves an educational and community role, rather than a commercial focus.

Image source: https://lubelski.pl/orszak-swietego-mikolaja-przeszedl-ulicami-lublina-zdjecia/