Experience the spiritual Mevlevi Sema ceremony, a traditional dance performed by the Whirling Dervishes as a form of remembrance of God. The ceremony, which has been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, is held at the Mevlana Cultural Center near the museum. It features dervishes dressed in white robes twirling in unison, representing a mystical journey of spiritual ascent through mind and love to perfection. The performance is set to traditional Sufi music, providing visitors with an immersive cultural and religious experience. The dance's precision and symbolic meanings, combined with the haunting sounds of the ney (a traditional Sufi wind instrument), create an unforgettable spectacle that resonates with the teachings of Rumi, the famous Sufi poet and theologian.
Mevlana Museum, also known as the Green Mausoleum or the Mevlana Dergah?, is one of Turkey's most visited museums, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. Visitors on a guided tour can explore the museum's extensive collection, which includes historical artifacts, richly decorated robes, and manuscripts, all while learning about the life of Jalaluddin Rumi and the philosophy of the Mevlevi order. Highlights of the museum include Rumi's mausoleum, the semahane (ritual hall), and the adjoining mosque. The guided tour helps to contextualize the exhibits and provides in-depth insights into the significance of each item, the history of the lodge, and the Mevlevi Sufi traditions. Be sure to admire the intricate tile work and calligraphy that adorn the walls of this spiritually significant site.
Delve deeper into the teachings of Rumi and the Mevlevi order with a series of lectures held at the Mevlana Cultural Center or similar venues within the vicinity of the Mevlana Museum. These sessions provide a comprehensive understanding of Sufi philosophy, Rumi's poetry, and their relevance in the modern world. Speakers often include scholars, researchers, and practitioners with a deep understanding of the mystical aspects of Islam. The lectures are designed for those who seek a more profound knowledge of the spiritual principles that underpin the Mevlevi way of life. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with experts through question-and-answer sessions, making this a more interactive experience.