75 Minutes
Up to 1 day
Unlimited
English
Night Dervish Show at the Theodosius Cistern
Experience the magic of Istanbul’s history, spirituality and culture with the night dervish show at the Theodosius Cistern. Hidden beneath the city streets, this ancient cistern provides the perfect setting for an unforgettable evening. Your journey begins with a breathtaking light show, where vivid images bring Istanbul’s history to life, tracing its transformation from the Byzantine Empire to the Ottoman era and modern Turkey.
After the light show, witness the enchanting whirling dervish ceremony. Performed by skilled Sufi practitioners, this spiritual dance is a powerful expression of devotion and tradition, accompanied by live Sufi music echoing through the atmospheric walls of the cistern. The combination of the serene setting and this ancient ritual creates an extraordinary cultural experience.
Guests will also enjoy complimentary Ottoman sherbet and snacks, adding a touch of Turkish hospitality to the evening. The ticket includes both the light show and the dervish performance, allowing you to enjoy a full experience of Istanbul’s rich heritage in one of its most unique venues.
Program Schedule:
• 7:45 PM: Entry begins, allowing time for guests to settle into this atmospheric venue.
• 8:00 PM: A brief introduction to Sufism, the Dervish tradition, and the cistern’s historic significance.
• 8:15 PM: Start of the Mapping Light Show, showcasing Istanbul’s journey from the Byzantine to the modern era.
• 8:30 PM: Whirling Dervish Performance, accompanied by live Sufi music.
• 9:15 PM: End of the program, leaving guests with an unforgettable memory.
For those seeking an authentic Istanbul Dervish Show or a truly unique experience of Istanbul’s cultural heritage, this Istanbul Whirling Dervish performance at the Cistern of Theodosius is the perfect blend of history, art, and spirituality.
The ticket includes access to the Cistern of Theodosius, the light show and the performance of the whirling dervishes. Complimentary sherbet and Ottoman snacks are also provided.
The entire experience lasts approximately 90 minutes, from 7:45 pm to 9:15 pm.
Photography is permitted before and after the performances. However, during the whirling dervish ceremony, guests are requested to refrain from taking pictures in order to maintain the sanctity of the ritual.
Guests are advised to arrive before 7:45 p.m. to allow sufficient time to settle in and enjoy the introductory presentation before the show begins.
Yes, the show is suitable for the whole family and for children. The mesmerizing light show and the serene performance of the whirling dervishes offer an engaging cultural experience for visitors of all ages.
Incredible architecture and peaceful