Mevlâna Museum travel guide

The Mevlâna Museum, located in Karatay, was originally established as the Rose Garden of the Seljuks Sultanate of Rum and later transformed into a monastery for dervishes in the 13th century.

Set amongst the serene and historic landscapes of Karatay, it was the primary residence of Jalal ad-Din Muhammad Rumi, a 13th-century Persian poet, jurist, theologian and Sufi mystic, also known as Mevlâna or Rumi.

The museum houses the mausoleum of Rumi, as well as the dervish lodge (tekke) of the Mevlevi order, also known as the whirling dervishes.

In 1926, the Turkish Government declared the site as a museum and it was opened to the public in 1927. Over the years, it has been meticulously preserved and remains a profound symbol of the Mevlevi order's rich cultural heritage.

The museum was added to the UNESCO World Heritage list in 1985, consolidating its status as a key historical and cultural site.

Located in the dynamic Konya, the popular Mevlâna Museum is easy to find and can be explored during a short weekend escape in the beautiful town of Karatay or as a stop on your countrywide road trip through Turkey.

Karatay is a perfect holiday destination for those who crave a mix of history, culture, and modern amenities. With its distinct architecture, famous museums, and delicious culinary scene, Karatay offers something for everyone.

Take a stroll through the charming streets and alleys to discover hidden gems and enjoy the local atmosphere. Visit this popular landmark in Karatay and immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture at top attractions, including the remarkable Azizia Mosque, Kapu Mosque, Selimiye Mosque, Aşkar Höyügü Parkı, and Fetih Parkı.

Whether you're looking to indulge in shopping or explore the nightlife, Karatay has it all. Don't forget to sample the delicious cuisine, from traditional dishes to modern fusion.

Experience the best of both worlds in Karatay, a place where the past meets the present, and you'll create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.

Click the travel guides below to learn more and get ready to make unforgettable memories in Turkey!

Mevlâna Museum is conveniently accessible by various transportation options in Karatay, Turkey. If you're flying in, Konya Airport is approximately 8.1 miles (13 km) away from Karatay. From there, you can easily reach Mevlâna Museum by taxi or shuttle.

For those already in Karatay, buses, taxis, and walking are viable options to reach Mevlâna Museum, which is located 0.1 miles (0.2 km) from the city center. You can also rent a car and drive to Mevlâna Museum, providing flexibility to explore at your leisure. Its exact address is Aziziye, Mevlana Cd. No:1, 42030 Karatay/Konya, Türkiye.

With your transportation plans sorted, get ready for an unforgettable experience at Mevlâna Museum!

To truly enjoy your visit to Mevlâna Museum, joining a tour that features this popular museum in Karatay is highly recommended. As one of Turkey's most iconic attractions, Mevlâna Museum draws visitors from around the world. Booking a tour in advance allows you to skip the lines and ensures a smooth, enjoyable experience.

Find the best and most popular tours and tickets to Mevlâna Museum starting at just 94.15 EUR below.

The best time to explore Mevlâna Museum, a gem in the heart of Karatay, Turkey, is during the spring and fall seasons. These periods offer mild and pleasant weather, enhancing your experience as you delve into the rich history of the Whirling Dervishes. Spring, from April to June, and fall, from September to November, usually have fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to avoid large crowds. Furthermore, visiting in December allows you to witness the annual 'Şeb-i Arus' ceremony, a unique event commemorating the death anniversary of Mevlâna, the museum's namesake. This event features a captivating performance of the Whirling Dervishes, offering a cultural experience like no other. However, it's worth noting that December can be quite cold and the event draws larger crowds, so plan accordingly. To make the most of your visit, arrive early in the day when the museum opens at 9 AM. This will allow you enough time to explore the museum thoroughly.

There's no better way to discover the wonders of Mevlâna Museum and other top attractions in Karatay than with a perfectly planned holiday package! Travel packages to Karatay include everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Mevlâna Museum's wonders and in the beauty and history of the region. These packages offer the perfect opportunity to delve into Mevlâna Museum and experience a variety of activities and destinations tailored to suit all types of travelers.

Keep reading to discover the best travel plans and insider tips for uncovering the charm of this one-of-a-kind museum in Turkey.

Conveniently explore Mevlâna Museum and plenty more captivating attractions in Karatay by staying at a top-rated hotel in the center of the town. With comfortable accommodations and easy access to Mevlâna Museum and other notable landmarks, wake up well-rested every day, ready to explore all that Karatay has to offer.

Discover the best hotels for visiting Mevlâna Museum below.

Aside from Mevlâna Museum, Karatay is home to numerous other top attractions waiting to be explored. From museums and architectural masterpieces to sculptures and natural wonders, the town offers a diverse range of sights to behold. For the ultimate sightseeing tour around Karatay, there are a number of attractions every itinerary should include, namely Azizia Mosque, Kapu Mosque, and Selimiye Mosque.

Azizia Mosque is a bucket-list mosque and top attraction in Karatay, drawing numerous travelers and locals every year. As evident by its average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 4,600 reviews, this attraction is a popular place to visit for anyone with time to spend in the town. The exact address of Azizia Mosque is Aziziye, Selimiye Cd. 9 B, 42030 Karatay/Konya, Türkiye.

Another appreciated attraction in Karatay is Kapu Mosque. Like Azizia Mosque, this is one of the most popular sites to visit in the town. With an impressive average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars among 3,600 visitors, it’s also one of the highest-rated. The exact address of this mosque is Şükran, Esenlerli Sk. Kapı Cami No:21, 42040 Meram/Konya, Türkiye.

Selimiye Mosque is also a clear favorite among travelers seeking to experience the uniqueness of Karatay. This mosque and top attraction in Karatay has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 1,600 visitors. This attraction is located at the address of Aziziye, Müze Alanı Cd. No:5, 42030 Karatay/Konya, Türkiye.

Check out our full list of top attractions in the town of Karatay below.