Whirling Dervishes Evening in Istanbul

Head to the Hodjapasha Dance Theatre to witness an immersive Sufi performance by the Sufi Dervishes, who is better known by the name ‘Whirling Dervishes’. The venue, refurbished from a 15th-century hammam (Turkish bath), makes a perfect setting for a traditional performance with its high dome ceilings. The Whirling Dervishes will take you on a unique spiritual journey, as they perform the spinning dance ritual of the Mevlevi Order to the tune of mesmerizing music.

The whirling dance of the dervishes is listed on the UNESCO Heritage of Humanity. You will learn more about the culture of Sufism, which is an ancient religion, practiced by followers of 13th-century poet Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi, who belonged to Konya, Turkey. The experience with the Istanbul Whirling Dervishes is your chance to know about Sufism’s central tenets of acceptance and tolerance, self-control and the mystical union with God.

Make time to see the interesting information displays about whirling dervishes and their unique ceremonial dance or buy a book of Rumi's poetry as a souvenir to take back home with you. If you are looking for a cultural evening, the Whirling Dervish performance is one of the best things to do in Istanbul.