#Nikulden – St. #Nicholas Day

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Russian Church St. Nicholas in Sofia, Bulgaria

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     Today, 06.12., we celebrate the feast day of #St.Nicholas. Nicholas was born in Asia Minor in III-rd century. He became a bishop in the city of Myra. During the reign of Diocletian and Galerius Nicholas was prosecuted and imprisoned. In 342 he died in Myra and was buried in the cathedral there. On 09.05.1087 his relics were sent to Bari, Italy.  Because of the miracles, he has made, he is also known as Nicholas Wonderworker. He is considered as a patron saint of the sailors, fishermen, merchants, falsely accused, children etc. He secretly gave gifts to the people, especially to the poor ones and this led to the traditional model of Santa Claus.​

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    In Bulgaria this day is called “Nikulden” and it is a name day of all people with names linked to Nicholas. Traditionally on the table is served carp – it may be stuffed with walnuts, rice, onions, tomatoes or raisins. Another traditional dish with carp is called “ribnik” – a carp in dough. Since Nikulden is during the fasting period, on the table should have meatless meals such as roasted peppers, beans, boiled corn. The bread and the ribnik are blessed in the church or at home and parts of them are given to the neighbors. On this day to the family dinner are invited relatives and neighbors. In Bulgaria Nicholas is very common name, so at almost each home there is a family celebration. 

Traditional carp