Saint Nicholas Full Name: Nikolaos of Myra Profession: Christian Saint and Greek Bishop of Myra Nationality: Greek Why Famous: His reputation for secret gift-giving (such as putting coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him) made him the model for Santa Claus. Born: March 15, 270 Birthplace: Patara, Asia Minor Star Sign: Pisces Died: December 6, 343 (aged 73) Share On Facebook Share On Twitter Famous Greeks Alexis Tsipras Arianna Huffington Euripides Pheidippides