Admission to attractions
Digital audio guide (phone download)
Hotel pick up and drop off
Other personal expenses
Tips and gratuities
Kızlarağa Medresesi
Alemdar, Hoca Rüstem Sk. No:6, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul, Türkiye
Please refer to the map for assistance
Experience the Mevlevi Sema ritual at the Kizlaragasi Medrese in the heart of Istanbul, featuring captivating whirling dances and dervishes.
Whirling Dervishes are following a Sufi mystic tradition of the religion Islam. In the 12th century, one of the philosophers of the religion Islam opened the path of pure love tradition and led to the Mevlevi Sufi Order´s creation. The name Mevlevi comes from the creator of the order Mevlana Jelaleddini Rumi. Once, his book Rumi was even a top seller in the USA.
In the whirling tradition of the Mevlevi followers, there's a fascinating philosophy. Back when Mevlevi Monasteries were open, anyone who wanted to join could do so. There were no rejections. However, joining required completing tough tasks to prove commitment. Whirling was the final step, symbolizing being in tune with creation. Everything in their performance had a meaning: black for death, white for birth, and their hats representing letting go of ego.