In Search of Santa Claus

Who was Saint Nicholas and how did he become Santa Claus?

The truth behind a story you thought you knew

This Smithsonian Networks documentary looks at the origins of Santa Claus and how he became such a beloved figure in popular culture. The viewer is taken to significant St. Nicholas places: Patara, Myra, Amsterdam, Bari, Lido of Venice, Antalya and New York. Visits are also made to the offices of Coca-Cola and the University of Manchester where the forensic work to develop the "real face" of St. Nicholas took place.

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