Details

Embark on a spiritual journey and witness the mesmerizing Whirling Dervishes Show at Hodjapasha Culture Center, located in the heart of Istanbul. Experience the sacred Mevlevi Sema ceremony, a UNESCO-recognized tradition, as the dervishes perform their 800-year-old mystical dance accompanied by enchanting sufi music. This captivating show offers a unique glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Turkey.

Step inside the Hodjapasha Culture Center, a beautifully restored 550-year-old Ottoman Turkish bath, where the atmosphere adds to the magic of the spiritual ritual. Engage with the exhibits, which include hyperrealist dervish statues, interactive Rumi poems, and video shows, immersing you further in the history and meaning behind the Mevlevi Sufi tradition.

The ceremony invites you to reflect on love, unity, and the divine, as the dervishes whirl in a trance-like state, symbolizing a spiritual ascent towards the perfection of one’s faith. The performance is an unforgettable encounter with ancient customs, infused with the teachings of the famous poet and mystic Rumi.

Highlights:

Mevlevi Sema Ceremony: Witness an authentic 800-year-old spiritual dance, performed by the whirling dervishes.
Historical Venue: Enjoy the performance in the Hodjapasha Culture Center, a restored 550-year-old Ottoman bath.
Exhibition Area: Explore the interactive exhibits, including sufi music, Rumi’s poems, and video shows, for a deeper understanding of the ceremony.
Traditional Music: Be captivated by the hauntingly beautiful sufi music played live during the ceremony.

Inclusions:

Admission to the Whirling Dervishes Show
Program booklet
Bottled drinking water

Exclusions:

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Food and drinks

Important Information:

Photography is not allowed during the show to maintain the spiritual atmosphere.
Seating is first-come, first-served, so early arrival is recommended.
Arrive at least 30 minutes before the showtime. Latecomers may enter during the first 10 minutes, but tickets for arrivals later than 15 minutes after the start will not be refunded.
The venue is not wheelchair accessible.

Location:

The Hodjapasha Culture Center is situated near Istanbul’s top attractions, including the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia, and Topkapi Palace, and is easily accessible from Sirkeci train station, tram stop, and Marmaray stop. It is also within walking distance from Eminonu Square and the Eminonu pier.