Cultural Corridors of South East Europe

Heritage by Country / Turkey

The Mevlevi Sema Ceremony

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The Mevlevi Sema Ceremony

About the site


Corridor: Diagonal Road
Country: Turkey, Konya
Type: Intangible Heritage
Epoch:
Theme:
World Heritage: Intangible Heritage Masterpieces
Intangible HeritageIntangible Heritage Masterpieces

The Mevleviye are dervish men (Muslim monks) from the Turkish town of Konya. Their ceremonies, called Sema, include many religious songs, music and dances. The most famous and interesting among these is their dance. While dancing the monks whirl around their left feet. Anyone would feel dizzy but not them. The Mevleviye have long white robes, tall hats and dance with their arms spread out. It’s really impressive to watch the group of dervish men whirling together with the skirts of their robes fluttering in the air.

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