[YankeeReb]

Why is it an insult? It seems the Orthodox church at least has the right to request them. It may be turned down, but there is a case to be made there.

Is it the Orthodox church or is it the Turkish government [the cult of islam]? Turkey is something like 95% muzzie so why should they be interested in Christian relics? I don't know, just asking.

[Mrs. Don-o]

It’s the Turkish government. If they want to do something to ‘honor’ St. Nicholas of Myra, they could return the ancient ruined church sites to the Orthodox Church. (Including the greatest and most ancient Church of Hagia Sophia, now a museum.) See also #8.

[Pecos]

Islam is also very much against images of people or animals, so this smells just a bit (or more than just a bit).