Before you arrive

Questions, answered
plainly.

Ceremony Can I take photos or video?

Silent photography is permitted during the opening and closing. During the whirling itself, all recording is prohibited out of respect for the spiritual nature of the ceremony.

Booking What is the refund policy?

Full refund up to 48 hours before the ceremony. After that, tickets are non-refundable but transferable to another date subject to availability.

Visit Are children welcome?

Children aged 7 and above are welcome, provided they can remain quiet for the full 60-minute ceremony. We do not recommend bringing infants or toddlers.

Ceremony Do I need to speak Turkish?

No. The Sema itself is a wordless ceremony of music and movement. Optional narrated sessions are offered in English on selected dates — see the schedule for narration language.

Visit What should I wear?

Smart casual. Shoulders and knees covered out of respect for the sacred space. Comfortable shoes — you may be seated cross-legged on cushions. No specific religious dress is required of guests.

Visit How long is the ceremony?

Approximately sixty minutes. Doors open thirty minutes prior. Late entry is not permitted once the ney begins — please plan to arrive early.

Etiquette May I take photographs or video?

Silent photography is permitted during the opening and closing. During the whirling itself, all recording is prohibited out of respect for the spiritual nature of the ceremony.

Visit Where is the lodge?

Kasımpaşa Mevlevihanesi sits in the Kasımpaşa neighbourhood of Beyoğlu, Istanbul — a short taxi or metro ride from Taksim and Galata. The lodge is on a quiet, narrow street; the precise address is sent in your confirmation email.

Visit Is the lodge accessible?

The semahane is on the ground floor and reachable by a small flight of historic stone steps. Please write to the lodge before booking if you have mobility needs — we will do our best to accommodate.

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