Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul

Etiya Res

Jul 05 756 read

Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul

Mevlana Celaleddin Rumi, who lived during the Sultanate of Rum in the 13th century, left behind a vast cultural heritage. People all around the world are still drawn to his works and his remarks as a philosopher, poet, and opinion leader. Mevlevi dervishes, or followers of Mevlana's teachings, maintain his memory alive today through a combination of Philosophy of Mysticism and whirling dervish ritual, which Mevlana developed.

Dervishes execute a whirling dervishes ceremony in which they focus on God's love and swirl about themselves. Every year, at the Sebi-i Arus (Wedding Day) Ceremonies in Konya, the most stunning spectacle to watch this magical ritual is conducted. Even if you are unable to travel to Konya, you can still see the legendary whirling dervishes perform in Istanbul. When it comes to whirling dervishes, there are two sites to see them perform. Galata Mevlevi House in Beyoglu (commonly known as Taksim) and Hocapasha Cultural Center in Sirkeci are two of them (nearby Sultanahmet).

Whirling Dervishes in Istanbul

Please keep in mind that this is a spiritual dance performance. The derwishes will spin for a long time as calm music plays in the background. Some folks may find it tedious. If you don't believe you'll enjoy this type of event, you should check out the Rhythm of the Dance Show, which is held in the same location. The Hodjapasha Cultural Center is located in Sirkeci, the Old City's core. Despite the fact that Sirkeci neighborhood is only made up of the area where the Sirkeci Tram Station is located and a few streets adjacent, it is a hub for a variety of activities in Istanbul.

Sirkeci is in a fantastic location, directly in the middle of Eminonu, the transportation and commerce hub of Istanbul's Old City. Both locals and foreign visitors will enjoy Sirkeci as a nice place to spend time and dine after touring Sultanahmet's ancient landmarks. Sirkeci is home to some of Istanbul's top local restaurants. Sirkeci Square also has some of Istanbul's top dessert establishments. As a result, Sirkeci is an excellent area in Istanbul to sample local foods and desserts. The Hodjapasha Cultural Center was built on the site of an old hamam (Turkish bath), which is now one of Istanbul's best hammams, and is at the heart of the city's gastronomic and cultural history. As a result, you might think of seeing a whirling dervish event as a full cultural experience. A whirling dervish display can last up to 60 minutes on its own.

When will the Whirling Dervishes perform?

Every day at 19:00, a performance by whirling dervishes takes place. Because the venue's entrance opens at 18:15, you can relax in the lounge until the concert begins. However, you must arrive 30 minutes before to the start of the show. The Hodjapasha Derwish Show costs 110 Turkish Lira each ticket. Please note that children under the age of six are not permitted in the theater.

After the Show of the Whirling Dervishes

You can visit Spice Bazaar and Blue Mosque before or after watching a whirling dervishes performance via Buyuk Postane Street, which allows for a direct access next to Istiklal Street. You can walk down this route in the direction of Eminonu, which will lead you to one of the Spice Bazaar's main gates. As a result, you will have the opportunity to explore this 350-year-old historical bazaar as well as the New Mosque or Rustem Pasha Mosque, which is known for its Iznik tiles.