The most renowned Mevlevihane (Mevlevi Lodge) in Istanbul is the Galata Mevlevihanesi, established in 1491. Located in the heart of the city near the famous Galata Tower, this lodge was not just a center for Sufism but also for Ottoman classical music. Many famous musicians and ney players were trained here, and the air still feels infused with their artistry.
Another significant lodge is the Yenikapı Mevlevihanesi, once the largest in Istanbul. During the Ottoman era, it was a revered spiritual hub where Sema ceremonies attracted audiences from all walks of life, including the palace elites.
Besides these, remains of Mevlevihanes can be found in neighborhoods like Kasımpaşa and Küçükçekmece, each carrying echoes of Istanbul's rich spiritual past.
When visiting these places, it's not just about seeing ancient architecture — it's about feeling the tranquility, imagining the soft sounds of the ney reverberating off the walls, and connecting with the centuries of devotion and artistry that once thrived there.
By Mevlevi Guide
Cultural Heritage Team