Mevlana Museum

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The 'Green Dome' was built on four thick pillars known as the 'pillars of elephants' to support its massive weight.

2. 2

   Rumi's sarcophagus is positioned directly beneath the center of the dome, reflecting his spiritual central importance.

3. 3

   The museum houses a box made of ebony that is said to contain the sacred beard of the Prophet Muhammad.

4. 4

   The inscriptions on the walls were written by famous Ottoman calligraphers.

5. 5

   The dervish cells surrounding the courtyard are now used to display exhibits related to Sufi life and material culture.

6. 6

   The museum collection includes a 13th-century 'Mesnevi' manuscript considered one of the oldest in existence.

7. 7

   A marble fountain, the 'Şeb-i Arus' pool, stands in the courtyard, used historically for ritual ablutions.

8. 8

   The silver gate at the entrance to the tomb chamber was donated by the Ottoman Sultan Selim III.

Overview

The Mevlana Museum serves as the mausoleum of Jalal al-Din Muhammad Rumi, a 13th-century Persian poet, jurist, and Sufi mystic. Located on the site of the former dervish lodge of the Mevlevi order, the complex features a distinctive fluted turquoise dome that has become a symbol of Konya. The tomb of Rumi is positioned under the 'Green Dome,' decorated with gold-embroidered verses from the Quran. The museum grounds include the Tilavet Room, the Semahane, and the dervish living cells arranged around a central courtyard. Visitors can view historical copies of the Masnavi, Rumi's seminal poetic work, alongside musical instruments used in Mevlevi ceremonies. The site contains the sarcophagi of Rumi, his family members, and various high-ranking dervishes. The original rose garden, or Gülbahçesi, occupies the courtyard space. It functioned as a lodge for the Mevlevi order until 1925, when it was converted into a museum by the Turkish Republic. The museum remains a significant pilgrimage site for followers of Sufism globally.

Insider tips

• Remove your shoes before entering the mausoleum area and use the provided plastic covers.

• Maintain a quiet, respectful tone as the site is an active place of pilgrimage for many.

• Look for the display cases in the side rooms that detail the daily life and tools of the dervishes.