Whirling Dervishes Show in the Binbirdirek Cistern
Whirling Dervishes in the Binbirdirek Cistern
In the very center of Istanbul lies one of the underground sanctuaries that preserves echoes of lost empires: the Binbirdirek Cistern. There, among its 224 marble columns, you’ll witness the ancestral ritual of the Whirling Dervishes, a ceremony that has been spinning for more than 8 centuries. Welcome!
You’ll enter the cistern, illuminated by a soft glow that highlights its Byzantine geometry. Shadows will slide across the capitals of this space built in the 4th century.
When the ceremony begins, the outside world will fade away. A master will open the ritual with the naat, a chant of praise that marks the transition between the earthly and the spiritual. Then you’ll hear the kudüm, the deep drum that beats with intensity. And then, very slowly, the dervishes will prepare to spin.
The first movement will be solemn, as they cross their arms over their chest, symbolizing divine unity. Then, as they extend their arms, one hand toward the sky to receive grace, the other toward the earth to share it, the spinning will begin.
Their white robes will open like spirals of light. Did you know that the dervish keeps one foot firmly planted while the other orbits, representing the axis of the universe? Every detail and movement has a meaning!
At the end of this 45-minute show, you’ll understand why the dance of the Whirling Dervishes has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage tradition. Afterward, you can remain inside the Binbirdirek Cistern to explore its corners at your own pace.
More Information
Duration
45 minutes.
Included
Admission to a Whirling Dervishes show in the Binbirdirek Cistern
When to book?
You can book up to the tour start time subject to availability. Book now to guarantee your spot.
Type of voucher
Electronic. Show the voucher on your phone.
Accessibility
Not wheelchair accessible.
Sustainability conditions
All services published on Civitatis are carried out in accordance with our Sustainability Code.
Our providers commit to:
- Provide a safe and satisfying experience.
- Reduce, reuse, recycle.
- Incorporate eco-conscious technologies.
- Uphold fair employment standards.
- Foster the growth of local communities.
- Preserve the integrity of local culture.
- Safeguard both cultural and environmental heritage.
- Ensure ethical treatment of animals.
- Operate with honesty and transparency.
- Encourage sustainable behaviors among customers and staff.
This particular activity contributes as follows:
- No printing of documentation required.
Pets
Not permitted.
Frequently asked questions
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Q - Can I explore the Binbirdirek Cistern after the show?
A - Yes. After the Whirling Dervishes show, you can explore the Binbirdirek Cistern at your own pace.
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Q - Why do this activity with Civitatis?
A - At Civitatis, we offer tickets at official prices, with full transparency and exclusive benefits for our users. In a few exceptional cases (less than 5%), these rates may be slightly higher than the ticket office price as they include booking fees and/or audio guides. The advantage is that your spot is guaranteed, and you won’t have to wait in line at the ticket office(although there may still be wait time at security and to access the monument).
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Q - How to book?
A - To reserve the activity, choose the date and complete the form on this page. You will receive your confirmation immediately.
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Q - Which local supplier will be providing the tour?
A - Royal Tours Tickets Corporate name: Mega Travel Group Turizm ve Tic. Ltd. Sti. Registered Office: Gümüşsuyu Mah. Inönü Cd Melek Apt. No: 11/2 34437 Beyoglu, Istanbul, Turkey Tax Identification Number (VAT ID): 7351975533 Contact information Email: deniz@cosmic-tickets-audios.com Phone: +905427178837
If you have any other questions please contact us.
Cancellations
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