I think St. Nicholas was born in Greece, and did most of his "saintly" work Turkey! In his later life it was suggested that he had imitators.

Interesting side story; his most prodigious activity was the spreading of Oranges as a popular treat.

He often did "sneak in" to homes and stuff them in to stockings (actually hanging by the fireplace to dry).

The myths about his sleigh and reindeer had some validity as well...he did have huge sacs of oranges that he distributed widely....using his sleigh and reindeer.

Of course the Christian trend was to exaggerate everything...so he then was said to "fly", he allegedly landed on rooftops, worked at the north pole, and went down chimneys to leave his "prizes" according to the middle ages myth-makers.

Oh...and say "Saint Nicholas" fast a few times...and you get Santa Claus.

[en.wikipedia.org]