Archaeologists have uncovered a sarcophagus at St. Nicholas Church in Demre, Antalya, offering new insights into the rich history of this iconic site.
The church, thought to be near the final resting place of St. Nicholas—the Bishop of Myra and the inspiration behind Santa Claus—has long been a treasure trove of archaeological discoveries. This latest find was unearthed in a two-story annex of the church, where excavations have been ongoing since 1989.
The excavation at St. Nicholas Church, led by Associate Professor Ebru Fatma Findik from Hatay Mustafa Kemal University, forms part of the “Legacy for the Future Project” initiated by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Over the past two years, the team has unearthed a remarkable sarcophagus carved from local limestone.
Measuring approximately two meters in length, the sarcophagus is partially buried 1.5 to 2 meters underground. Its design, featuring a raised lid and a pitched roof, aligns with the architectural style of sarcophagi typical of the region.
Before uncovering the sarcophagus, researchers had encountered animal bones and numerous fragments of clay lamps, evidence that suggested they were excavating a burial site, according to Findik.
A primary goal for the excavation team is to locate any inscriptions on the sarcophagus. Such markings could offer vital clues about its age and the identity of the individual buried within.
“Our biggest hope is to find an inscription on the sarcophagus. This would help clarify the burial contents and allow us to determine the exact period it dates to,” Findik stated. Although the lid of the sarcophagus has been uncovered, only a small portion of the burial chamber is currently visible. Continued excavation efforts in the coming months are expected to unveil more details about this intriguing find.
This discovery is particularly significant in the search for the final resting place of St. Nicholas. Historical records have long speculated that his tomb lies near the sacred area of Myra. The sarcophagus’s proximity to the church, believed to have been constructed on or near his burial site, adds credibility to the theory that this could indeed be the sacred area referenced in ancient texts.
“Some sources suggest that St. Nicholas was buried near the sacred area of the city of Myra. The fact that we have found a sarcophagus near the church, which is thought to house his tomb, may indicate that this is indeed the sacred area we have been searching for. This is a significant archaeological confirmation of historical sources regarding the burial place of St. Nicholas,” Findik commented.
The discovery marks a significant breakthrough for both historical and religious communities, providing valuable insights into the final resting place of St. Nicholas. As excavations progress, researchers hope to resolve longstanding questions surrounding the church and the tomb of one of early Christianity’s most revered figures.
Uncovering the sarcophagus at St. Nicholas Church brings scholars a step closer to unraveling the mystery of his burial.
