Sam Dalrymple
Author and researcher who visited Lycia and conducted original research on the cult of Saint Nicholas and the tomb at Myra, providing first‑hand observations and historical context for the episode.
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17 snips
Dec 23, 2025 • 32min
318. Heist of St Nicolas: Raiding Santa's Tomb (Part 1)
Join author and researcher Sam Dalrymple as he delves into the fascinating lore of Saint Nicholas, the bishop from Myra in ancient Turkey. Discover how his tomb became a pilgrimage site and the intrigue surrounding the sailors who sought to steal his bones. Learn about the cultural crossroads of Lycia, the blend of Greek and Persian influences, and the connection to early Indian architecture. Dalrymple also explores the origins of gift-giving traditions associated with Nicholas and how he became a guardian of sailors, merging with Poseidon's legends.
12 snips
Dec 25, 2025 • 32min
319. Heist of St Nicolas: The Medieval Mafia Who Stole Santa (Part 2)
In this engaging discussion, historian Sam Dalrymple, author of 'Shattered Lands,' unpacks the thrilling Heist of St Nicholas by Italian sailors in 1087. He explores the captivating blend of St Nicholas mythology with Germanic Odin tales, revealing how these legends evolved into today's Santa Claus. Dalrymple also highlights the impact of polar mania and Coca-Cola's 1931 ads that solidified Santa's red-and-white image, reshaping holiday traditions worldwide. Get ready to learn how history shaped our modern festive icons!
