Discover the Whirling Dervishes at Kizlaragasi Medresesi

Immerse yourself in the spiritual Whirling Dervishes show at Kizlaragasi Medresesi in Istanbul. This unique Sufi Ceremony blends culture, history, and spirituality, showcasing the Mevlevi Order’s traditions. The one-hour performance offers a deep dive into mystical Sufi rituals within a historic and atmospheric venue.

Why Attend the Whirling Dervishes Show at Kizlaragasi Medresesi?

  • Authentic Sufi Ritual: Witness the UNESCO-listed Sema ceremony performed by Whirling Dervishes in a genuine setting.
  • Historic Location: The historic Kizlaragasi Medresesi enhances the mystical atmosphere of the ceremony.
  • Cultural Insight: Gain understanding of Sufi traditions and philosophies through detailed displays and presentations.
  • Captivating Performance: Enjoy the hypnotic music and dance as dervishes whirl in harmony with traditional instruments.
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What’s Included

  • Entry to Venue: Admission to the Kizlaragasi Medresesi for the Whirling Dervishes show.
  • Informative Displays: Access to exhibitions detailing the Mevlevi Order and the Sema ceremony.
  • Cultural Performance: An hour-long immersive experience featuring traditional music, chanting, and the whirling dance.
  • Free Hot Drinks and Bottled Water: Complimentary tea, coffee, and bottled water during the show.

Detailed Program

  1. Introduction: The dervish’s arms are open while whirling, right hand to the sky receiving God’s blessings, left hand turned towards the earth, turning from right to left around the heart, symbolizing conveying God’s spiritual gift to humanity.
  2. Creation Command: Represented by the drum, symbolizing God’s order to create.
  3. First Breath of Life: An instrumental „taksim“ with „ney,“ symbolizing the first breath of mankind.
  4. Dervish Salutation: Dervishes greet each other.
  5. Sema Ceremony: Four „selams“ (whirling), where dervishes testify to God’s unity at the end of each selam.
  6. Quran Reading: The ceremony concludes with a Quranic recitation, especially Sura Bakara 2:115: “The East and the West belong to Allah, wherever you turn, you are faced with Him. He is All-Embracing, All-Knowing.”
  7. Final Prayer: A prayer for the souls of all Prophets and believers.
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Optimal Times to Attend

The show runs year-round and is unaffected by weather, making it perfect for any visit to Istanbul.

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Show Times

Daily: Every day except Tuesdays at 19:00 and 20:00.

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Ticket Options

Price: €20 per person
No age restrictions

Key Informations about Whirling Dervish Show at Kizlaragasi Medresesi

Address: Alemdar, Hoca Rüstem Sk. No:6, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye

  • By Tram: Take tram T1 to Sultanahmet Tram Station, a short walk from the venue.
  • By Metro: Take the M2 line to Vezneciler Metro Station, then walk to the venue.
  • By Bus: Various bus lines stop near Sultanahmet, followed by a short walk to Kizlaragasi Medresesi.
  • Comfortable Seating: Ample seating for a comfortable experience.
  • Restrooms: Convenient restrooms.
  • Exhibition Area: Displays about the Mevlevi Order and Sufi tradition.
  • Wheelchair Accessible: The venue is accessible for wheelchair users.
  • Arrive Early: Arrive 30 minutes early to explore the exhibitions and secure good seats.
  • First Come, First Served: Seating is allocated on a first-booked, first-served basis.
  • Late Arrivals: Latecomers can enter within the first 10 minutes. Arrivals after 15 minutes are considered no-shows with no refund.

FAQs about the Whirling Dervishes Show at Kizlaragasi Medresesi

Entry to Kizlaragasi Medresesi, access to exhibitions, and the Whirling Dervishes performance.

Yes, there are no age restrictions. Children can attend with a ticket.

Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible.

Yes, photography and video recording are allowed.

The show takes place every day except Tuesdays at 19:00 and 20:00.

It’s a historic venue located in the heart of Istanbul, providing an authentic and atmospheric setting for the ceremony.

There is no specific dress code.

The show lasts for about 1 hour.

Take tram T1 to Sultanahmet, metro M2 to Vezneciler, or various buses to Sultanahmet, followed by a short walk.

Yes, contact the venue for special arrangements.

Free hot drinks (tea, coffee) and bottled water are provided during the show.

The whirling represents the spiritual journey of ascending through the mind and love to the perfect. It is a means of conveying God’s spiritual gift to humanity.

The drum symbolizes God’s command to create.

It represents the first breath of mankind.

The greeting signifies respect and acknowledgment of each other’s spiritual journey.

The four „selams“ (whirling) involve the dervishes testifying to God’s unity at the end of each selam.

The Sema ends with a Quranic recitation, especially from Sura Bakara 2:115: “The East and the West belong to Allah, wherever you turn, you are faced with Him. He is All-Embracing, All-Knowing.”

The final prayer is for the souls of all Prophets and believers.