Authentic Whirling Dervish Ceremony, A Mystical Sufi Experience
Istanbul, Turkey
1 hour
What You Will Do
The Whirling Dervish ceremony in Istanbul is a mesmerizing and captivating spiritual practice that has been going on for centuries. It is an ancient Sufi ritual that originated in the 13th century with the founding of the Mevlevi Order by the Persian poet Rumi.
The ceremony takes place in a mystical setting, usually in a beautiful and ornate hall known as a tekke. The tekke is adorned with carpets, candles, and other symbolic objects that set the ambiance for the event. The audience gathers in anticipation, eager to witness the profound and mystical experience that is about to unfold.
The Whirling Dervishes, also known as semazen, are dressed in traditional white robes, symbolizing purity and detachment from material belongings. They wear tall felt hats called sikkes, representing the tombstones of the ego, which they remove before performing the dance. The dervishes enter the hall in a procession, creating an ethereal atmosphere as they slowly take their places.
What's Included?
- Entry/Admission - Hodjapasha Cultural Center
- Bottled water
- Multi National Booklet
What's Not Included?
- Food
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Itinerary
Meeting Point
Hodjapasha Cultural Center, Hoca Pasa Mh. Hocapasa Hamami Sokak No: 3/B, Sirkeci
1
Hodjapasha Cultural Center
Uncover the sacred practice of the mystical Sufis at an authentic Mevlevi Sema Ceremony held at Istanbul’s Hodjapasha and witness the 800-year-old tradition that has been preserved on UNESCO’s list of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Be mesmerized by the bizarre yet beautiful sight of the Whirling Dervishes as they perform their unique spiritual rituals during an hour-long show, including a live orchestra and 360-video projections.
Additional Information
This activity is operated by Tourmania
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Children under 7 years of age are not allowed
Guide Options
- Printed Guide - German
- Printed Guide - English
Customer Reviews
A must do in Istanbul
2023-11-27
Wonderful and very interesting spiritual experience. The way that the theatre is set up, seats in the house are “good.” I tecommend going a bit earlier to read all of the display informational materials.
This show would be worth the price and the time that you spend
2023-11-18
It was a good spiritual show. I loved the music and the poem. I was amazed at how they could keep whirling for such a long time.
The show was well planned and organized.
The show was well planned and organized.
Mystical and magical
2023-10-17
Don’t think you’re going to a West End show. This is a religious ceremony where you witness the dervishes dance to connect with God. Quite frankly it was incredible! Like nothing you’ve seen before. Kind of felt a bit like you shouldn’t be there watching….. Mystical and magical! take the time to research what it’s all about so you have a good understanding of what you’re witnessing to really appreciate it.
Show 15 more reviews