Monday, February 16, 2026

Whirling dervishes to perform at Rome’s Colosseum in historic 1st

In a historic first, the ancient Roman Colosseum will host a Mevlevi whirling dervish ceremony as the closing event of the “Musica in Venere” concert series, organized in partnership with the Italian Ministry of Culture and the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The Colosseum, one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in the world, will be transformed into a mesmerizing stage for the traditional Sufi dance of the Mevlevi order. This event marks a significant moment in history as it brings together two cultures and celebrates the universal language of music and dance.

The Mevlevi whirling dervish ceremony is a spiritual practice that originated in the 13th century in Konya, Turkey. It is a form of meditation and prayer, where the dervishes spin in a circular motion, symbolizing the journey of the soul towards enlightenment. The ceremony is accompanied by traditional music, creating a hypnotic and captivating experience for the audience.

The decision to hold this ceremony at the Colosseum is a testament to the enduring power of cultural exchange and the importance of preserving and promoting ancient traditions. The Colosseum, a symbol of the grandeur and legacy of the Roman Empire, will now witness the beauty and grace of the Mevlevi whirling dervishes, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Turkey.

The “Musica in Venere” concert series, which has been running for over a decade, aims to promote cultural exchange and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of different cultures. The partnership between the Italian and Turkish Ministries of Culture and Tourism is a testament to their commitment to promoting cultural diversity and strengthening ties between the two nations.

The Colosseum, with its grand architecture and rich history, provides the perfect backdrop for this unique event. The ancient amphitheater, which once hosted gladiator fights and other forms of entertainment, will now witness a spiritual and meditative performance, showcasing the evolution of human civilization and the power of cultural exchange.

The event is expected to draw a large audience, including tourists and locals, who will have the opportunity to witness this historic moment. It is a chance for people from all walks of life to come together and experience the beauty and harmony of the Mevlevi whirling dervishes, and to appreciate the significance of cultural diversity.

The “Musica in Venere” concert series has been a resounding success in the past, featuring renowned artists and musicians from around the world. However, this year’s closing event at the Colosseum promises to be the most memorable and significant one yet. It is a celebration of the universal language of music and dance, and a reminder of the power of cultural exchange in bringing people together.

The Mevlevi whirling dervish ceremony at the Colosseum is a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient traditions and the importance of preserving and promoting cultural diversity. It is a moment that will go down in history, as the Colosseum opens its doors to a new form of cultural expression, showcasing the beauty and grace of the Mevlevi whirling dervishes.

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