Mevlana Museum (Rumi Mausoleum), Konya

About Mevlana Museum (Rumi Mausoleum), Konya

Jalal al-Din Rumi, the thirteenth century mystic poet known in Turkey as Mevlana, lived and taught in Konya, then capital of the Seljuk Sultanate of Rum. After his death his followers founded the Mevlevi order, famous for the sema ceremony in which dervishes turn in meditative prayer. His tomb beneath a fluted turquoise tower became the order's spiritual center. His poetry on divine love is now read and recited by people of many faiths around the world.

The lodge was closed with all Sufi orders in 1925 and reopened as a museum, yet visitors still come as pilgrims, praying quietly before the richly draped sarcophagus. Exhibits include manuscripts of the Masnavi, musical instruments, and the cells where dervishes once trained. Each December the anniversary of Rumi's death, known as Sheb-i Arus or the wedding night, brings thousands to see sema performances at the nearby cultural center. Admission is free.

What to see

• Turquoise Green Dome over the tomb
• Rumi's ornate sarcophagus
• Masnavi manuscripts and calligraphy
• Dervish cells and kitchen
• Sema ceremonies at the Mevlana Cultural Center

Visiting Mevlana Museum (Rumi Mausoleum), Konya: practical guide

Best time

April to June, September to October, and December for Sheb-i Arus

Hours

Open daily, usually 9:00 to 18:30

Entry

Free

Dress code

Modest clothing; women may cover hair inside the tomb hall

Nearest airport

Konya Airport (KYA), 18 km

Tips from experienced pilgrims

• Weekly sema performances are often held on Saturday evenings
• Book Sheb-i Arus tickets early
• Behave as at a mosque inside the tomb chamber

Festivals and special days

• Sheb-i Arus, 7 to 17 December

Etiquette for visitors

Guidance drawn from Islam tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.

• Dress modestly, covering arms and legs; women usually cover their hair in mosques.
• Remove shoes before entering the prayer hall.
• Avoid visiting during prayer times unless invited, and never walk in front of someone praying.
• Be discreet about eating, drinking and smoking in public during Ramadan days.
• Use your right hand for eating and giving or receiving items.
• Some mosques and the holy cities of Mecca and Medina are closed to non-Muslims.

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Frequently asked questions