The night between 5 and 6 December, is a night of anticipation and trepidation for all children in Trieste as they await the arrival of San Nicolò (St. Nick).

In the days before, children write letters telling him the toys they want most and promising to be good…

Along the streets, the shop windows are full of toys, books and sweets, and the decorations shine… Everyone is waiting for St. Nick, who gives lots of sweets and toys to good children, but only brings coal for the brats! 

St. Nick derives from Saint Nicholas, the Bishop of Myra, who was born in Patara in Lycia (Asia Minor) and died in 350. 

It is said that Saint Nicholas learned of three poor girls in his city who were going to be sold as slaves because their family could not give them the dowries they needed to marry when grown. 

So, one night the bishop walked alone to the home of the poor girls and left three bags full of gold in the window.