About the Whirling Dervish Ceremony
The Whirling Dervish ceremony, known as the Sema, is a form of active meditation originating from the Mevlevi Order founded by followers of Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi in the 13th century in Konya, Turkey. This 700-year-old tradition is recognized by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The ceremony represents the mystical journey of the soul ascending through mind and love to the Perfect, turning towards truth, growing through love, and serving all of creation.
The Mevlevi Tradition and Rumi's Legacy
Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi (1207-1273) was a 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic scholar, and Sufi mystic whose influence transcends national borders and ethnic boundaries. His philosophy of tolerance, unconditional love, and the search for truth has inspired people around the world for over seven centuries. "Come, come, whoever you are" is his famous invitation that embodies the inclusive spirit of the Mevlevi tradition. The Sema ceremony he inspired continues to be performed as a living testament to his teachings.
Our Ceremony Experience
We present the authentic Mevlevi Sema ceremony in Istanbul with professional dervishes and live traditional music. Our venue is located in the historic Sultanahmet district, steps away from the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque. We have performed over 500 ceremonies for more than 10,000 guests from over 50 countries, sharing the beauty and spirituality of this timeless tradition.
