Christmas in Spain

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Saint Basil

One of the lesser known figures of Christmas is Saint Basil, a founding father of the Greek Orthodox Church. Each year on his saints day, January 1, Greek households celebrate a “renewal of the waters” by emptying all the water jugs in the house and refilling them with blessed water.

Originally published at Suite101 Holiday Saints

Saint Nicholas - The Basis for Santa Clause

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Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia’s story goes back to Viking sailors who heard of an Italian girl sacrificing herself for her beliefs in Christianity. During the Roman Empire, Lucia was bethrothed to be married. However, she gave her dowry away to some Christians, who were suffering persecution for their beliefs. Her fiancé was so angry about the lost dowry that he turned Lucia in to the Romans, who executed her. The story traveled to Scandinavia, where it became very popular, especially as a Swedish Christmas tradition. Every year Swedish homes and businesses choose a “Lucia.” Lucia is typically a young girl with a lighted candle wreath on her head, wearing a long white dress with a red sash. She bears a striking resemblance to the German gift bearer, Christkindl.

St.Lucia saints day is celebrated on December 13th.

Originally posted at Suite 101 Holiday Saints

Christmas in France

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Christmas in Austria

 We've Moved! Read about The History of Christmas in Austria at Far From Perfect.