The Tradition of Multiple Santas in Slovenia

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This chapter explores the history, cultural significance, and coexistence of multiple Santas in Slovenia during the festive season, including St. Nicholas, Mick Klausch, and Dedek Maras. It also discusses the role of demons called Parc-Ligny and their use in scaring children into being obedient.

We're revisiting this Christmas classic from 2021. Happy Holidays!

Slovenia is a small country in Central Europe nestled between Italy, Austria, Croatia and Hungary. It's a land of snowy white peaks, green valleys, and turquoise rivers. The country is beautiful in all seasons, but it is perhaps at its most magical around Christmastime. This nation of just over 2 million people is visited by, not one, not two, but three different "santas" every festive season. But it hasn't always been this way. Each Santa has had his moment in the spotlight—each in a different period of Slovenia’s complicated history. And in order to have a Christmas season that reflects that history and speaks to all Slovenians, you need three magical men.

The Three Santas of Slovenia