Whirling Dervish Show

Enjoy this spiritual and religious ritual of Istanbul's Whirling Dervishes, a UNESCO World Heritage experience.

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This experience is not a dance show, but a spiritual and religious ritual.

Established by followers of the thirteenth-century Persian poet, Rumi, the Mevlevi Order (Whirling Dervishes) represents the best-known Muslim order in Turkey that dances as a form of prayer.

The ceremony starts with 15 minutes of traditional Turkish music performed by local orchestras, followed by the Mevlevi Order's dance ritual lasting 45 minutes. This performance is recognized as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO. The Dervishes will undertake a spiritual journey to find the truth through love until they reach perfection.

Additionally, there is an exhibition featuring informative panels about the Dervishes and their ceremony, along with objects related to their world such as clothing, musical instruments, personal utensils, and books. The exhibition also includes interactive poems by Rumi, Sufi music examples, hyperrealistic dervish statues, and video projections.