This is an authentic ritual with the original live sound and movement as in the former centuries in Istanbul. Regarding the performance at the ceremony, the classic sufi music is essential. It sets the tempo to the end and elevate the dervishes' mood.
Then the whirling dervishes come forward to lift the curtain between the body and soul. All of the participants including the musicians (mıtraban) and performers (semazen) are local followers of the order. So, there is no acting performers in this ceremony.
This special ceremony is, first and foremost, a poetic experience. The original name “Sema” has two meanings: the skies and hearing.
The dervishes are raising their hands while whirling to feel the universe, its creation and motion. This is the way to reach maturity as a human being in an ecstatic moment full of love.
Although it was never seen as the mainstream, the Mevlevi Order has been a significant part of this city of coexistence and we are here to keep it.
Options
Christmas 21'
All days of the Week!
Whirling Dervish Ceremony Tickets in Istanbul
What's included
Traditional Turkish Sherbet or Tea and Water
Live Music and Ritual of Authentic Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul
A digital info guide about Sufis, Rumi and Dervishes
What to expect
Admission ticket included
You are most welcome to witness the transcendental pray of the dervish and discover the spiritual face of Istanbul at a very special salon of a very traditional house neighboring Hagia Sophia.
Join this mystical journey at an authentic place that reflects the old in Istanbul from the classical age of the Ottoman centuries!
Feel the spiritual Istanbul while witnessing the ritual of Sufi Dervishes at the heart of the old town!
Learn about the Mevlevi Order, a centuries-old old tradition of the followers of Rumi, the medieval poet from Konya!
Meeting and pickup
Meeting point
End point
Additional information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
