Mevlana Museum,Turkey

Mevlana Museum (Konya) is the mausoleum and former lodge (tekke) of the 13th-century Persian poet, Islamic jurist and Sufi mystic Jalal al-Din Rumi (known in Turkey as Mevlana). The site is the spiritual heart of the Mevlevi order (Whirling Dervishes) and a major center for Sufi thought and Ottoman-era religious architecture. Built around Rumi's tomb from the late 13th century and expanded under Seljuk and Ottoman patrons, the complex preserves important manuscripts, musical instruments, ceremonial dervish garments and richly tiled architecture that reflect Konya's historical role as a crossroads of Anatolian culture. The Mevlana Museum is a symbol of Turkey's living Sufi heritage and a key pilgrimage and tourist site in Konya.

Places to visit

  • Rumi's Mausoleum (Türbe) – the central tomb chamber under the iconic turquoise "Green Dome" (Kubbe-i Hadra).
  • Semahane / Whirling Hall – where the Mevlevi ceremonies (sema) were performed; displays related to the ritual are exhibited.
  • Collection of Sarcophagi – elaborately decorated wooden coffins and tomb-chambers of Rumi and his family/disciples.
  • Museum Rooms & Library – manuscripts, calligraphy, musical instruments, robes (sikke and khirqa) and official Mevlevi documents.
  • Courtyards and Porticos – characteristic Seljuk/Ottoman stonework and tile decorations that surround the complex.
  • Museum Shop & Exhibits – Mevlana-themed books, crafts and cultural displays explaining Rumi's poetry and Sufi practice.

Unique Aspects

  • Distinctive Turquoise Green Dome over Rumi's tomb (a widely recognized symbol).
  • Rich Seljuk and Ottoman tilework, woodcarving and calligraphy throughout the complex.
  • Intimate, contemplative atmosphere—the site functions more like a shrine than a secular museum.
  • Original Mevlevi ritual garments and instruments that illustrate the whirling dervish tradition.

Things to do

  • Visit the tomb and main exhibition rooms to see manuscripts, sarcophagi and Mevlevi regalia.
  • Attend a Sema (whirling dervish) ceremony in Konya during festival season or at organised cultural venues (advance booking often required).
  • Walk the museum courtyards and photograph the iconic Green Dome (observe photography rules in sacred areas).
  • Use audio guides or guided tours to understand the historical and spiritual context of exhibits.
  • Browse the museum shop for Mevlana-themed souvenirs and local crafts.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) for mild weather and fewer crowds. December brings the Mevlana Festival (Şeb-i Arus) but is very crowded and cold.

Weather Conditions

Konya has a continental climate—hot, dry summers and cold, often snowy winters. Expect large temperature swings between day and night.

Entry Fees & Permits

Paid entry with seasonal hours. Typical opening times are roughly 09:00–17:00 (may extend in summer); timings, closures for religious holidays and ticket prices change—check the official museum website or Konya tourism office before visiting. Discounts are commonly available for students, seniors and groups.

Accessibility

Central location in Konya—about 20–25 km from Konya Airport (KYA); well served by city trams, buses and taxis. The museum is a short walk from Konya's city centre and train/bus station. Note that older sections have steps and narrow passages; wheelchair access is partial—contact the museum ahead of time if you need accessibility accommodations.

Recommended Duration

1–2 hours for the main museum visit; allocate 3–4 hours if you plan to combine a visit with a Sema ceremony or guided walking tour of Konya's historic quarter.

Clothing & Gear Tips

Dress modestly and respectfully—smart casual with covered shoulders and knees is appropriate. Comfortable walking shoes for courtyards and stone floors. In winter bring warm layers; in summer bring sun protection and water.

Local Food & Souvenirs

Try Konya specialties such as etli ekmek (thin meat flatbread) and hoşmerim (local sweet). Souvenirs: Mevlana-themed items (books of Rumi's poetry, calligraphy, miniature tomb replicas), Mevlevi hats (sikke) and prayer beads, local ceramics and textiles.

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