Saint Nicholas
Since the Middle Ages in Alsace, as in the rest of the Rhineland, children have eagerly awaited the visit of Nikläus (Saint Nicholas) on December 6th. The Bishop of Myra, in Asia Minor during the 4th century, is considered the patron saint of children, and his cult has been attested since the 11th century.
- Christmas culture and tradition
Saint Nicholas is greatly venerated in Lorraine, the Rhine Valley, northern France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.
Even today, it is customary for children to place their shoes by the door, with some treats for the bishop and his donkey. The next morning, the shoes are overflowing with chocolates, mandarins, and Mannele.
These are brioche-shaped little figures that represent the three children whom Saint Nicholas is said to have saved from the butcher's salting tub.
