Sufis, known as whirling dervishes, seek to attain love and divine knowledge through a direct, personal connection with God. Sufism, often described as the mystical aspect of Islam, was traditionally viewed by Orientalist scholars as a spiritual tradition that reached its peak (Nirvana) during the medieval era of Islamic history. Its greatest legacy includes the exquisite literary masterpieces in Arabic and Persian that stand as timeless classics of Sufi expression.
The Sufi whirling dervishes’ ritual, known as Sema, is performed alongside a unique musical genre called Ayin. This music consists of four segments of vocal and instrumental pieces with differing rhythmic patterns, typically played by a group including a lead vocalist, a flute player (neyzen), a kettledrum percussionist, and a cymbal player.
Within the mevlevihanes, a type of monastic retreat, practitioners undergo an intensive 1,001-day period of secluded training. During this time, they immerse themselves in studying ethics, codes of behavior, and spiritual beliefs through the practice of prayer, sacred music, poetry, and dance. Although they remain affiliated with the order, after completing their training, they return to their everyday professions and family lives. This tradition beautifully blends spirituality with worldly existence.
The performers begin to spin rapidly on their left foot, using the right foot to gently push their bodies around the pivot. The whirler’s posture is meant to be fluid and graceful, with eyes open but unfocused, allowing sensory impressions to dissolve and blend harmoniously.
In 2005, UNESCO recognized the Whirling Dervishes Ceremony as an INTANGIBLE CULTURAL HERITAGE of Humanity, highlighting its importance within traditional performing arts and social practices.
Whirling Dervishes Performances take place at the Hodjapasha Cultural Center in Istanbul. Situated close to the magnificent Topkapi Palace and the stunning Hagia Sophia, Hodjapasha Cultural Center is a vibrant part of Istanbul's rich cultural tapestry. Originally built as a grand 15th-century Turkish bath (hamam), it has been transformed into an enchanting venue showcasing some of Turkey's most treasured traditions.
The Whirling Dervishes Performances are held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
The show starts at 19:00 and lasts approximately one hour. The ticket price is 35 Euros per person, which includes admission. Please note that there is no transportation service provided for pick-up or drop-off, so visitors are expected to arrive on their own. It is recommended to be there at least 30 minutes prior to the performance.
Due to the importance of the performers' concentration, children under 7 years old are not allowed to attend. Photography during the ceremony is generally restricted; however, attendees will be given some time after the performance to take pictures.
Contact us via email for further details and to book your tickets. We will respond to your inquiry within 24 hours at the latest.
• 1 hour ceremony
1 hour ceremony ticket
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Below is the general guideline for our cancellation policy if your agent does not mention otherwise:
Cancellation Policy for Whirling Dervishes Ceremony:
If you cancel 48 hours before the balloon flight, there is no cancellation fee.
If you cancel within 48 hours to 24 hours before the ride, we will charge 50% cancellation fee.
If you cancel within 24 hours of the flight , we will charge the full amount as cancellation fee.
We cannot give any refund on no-shows for the flights.