by Deniz from Izmir asks Santa who he was, learns about the Aegean coast and ancient Smyrna, and hears about the city’s ancient agora ruins
Dear Santa, my name is Deniz and I am nine years old. I live in Izmir, Turkey, where my büyükbaba says our city was once called by a different, very ancient name, and traces of that old city can still be seen today.
Dear Deniz, your büyükbaba is entirely right, and I have flown over that particular ancient history for a very long time myself.
Santa, I have three questions.
My first question is, who was Santa? My little sister wants a proper, thoughtful answer, not just a quick one.
I am the modern continuation of Saint Nicholas, Deniz, a real and generous bishop from many centuries ago, whose spirit of quiet kindness grew slowly over time into the Santa known today. I try to carry that same spirit forward every single year.
My second question is about our coast. My teacher says Izmir sits along the Aegean Sea. Is that true?
It is, Deniz. Izmir sits along the Aegean coast, its history stretching back thousands of years as an important trading city. Flying along that warm, historic coastline each Christmas Eve is a genuinely beautiful part of my Turkish route.
My third question is about the ancient agora. My teacher says it shows how people gathered here thousands of years ago. Is that true?
It is true, Deniz. Izmir’s ancient agora, dating back to the time when the city was known as Smyrna, offers a genuine glimpse into how people gathered, traded, and lived thousands of years ago. Flying over those ancient ruins each Christmas Eve fills me with genuine, quiet awe.
Merry Christmas, Santa.
Your friend,
Deniz Kaplan
Izmir, Turkey
P.S. Does it feel special flying over such ancient history?
Every single year, Deniz. It never once loses its meaning.
