• Hodjapasha Cultural Center - Discover the sacred traditions of the mystical Sufis at an authentic Mevlevi Sema Ceremony hosted at Istanbul’s Hodjapasha. Experience the 800-year-old tradition that is recognized on UNESCO’s list of the Intangible Heritage of Humanity. Be captivated by the extraordinary and beautiful performance of the Whirling Dervishes as they engage in their unique spiritual rituals during a one-hour show, featuring a live orchestra and 360-degree video projections.

• Entry/Admission to Hodjapasha Cultural Center
• Complimentary bottled water
• Multi-language tour booklet

• Food
• Hotel pickup and drop-off

The Whirling Dervish ceremony in Istanbul is a mesmerizing and captivating spiritual practice that has been going on for centuries. It is an ancient Sufi ritual that originated in the 13th century with the founding of the Mevlevi Order by the Persian poet Rumi.

The ceremony takes place in a mystical setting, usually in a beautiful and ornate hall known as a tekke. The tekke is adorned with carpets, candles, and other symbolic objects that set the ambiance for the event. The audience gathers in anticipation, eager to witness the profound and mystical experience that is about to unfold.

The Whirling Dervishes, also known as semazen, are dressed in traditional white robes, symbolizing purity and detachment from material belongings. They wear tall felt hats called sikkes, representing the tombstones of the ego, which they remove before performing the dance. The dervishes enter the hall in a procession, creating an ethereal atmosphere as they slowly take their places.

• Children under 7 years of age are not allowed

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.