Sultan Divani Mevlevi House Museum

Description

The historical Mevlevihane, established by Sultan Divani, the grandson of Mevlana, is an important center of culture and faith in Afyon.

Story

Sultan Divani Mevlevihanesi is considered one of the most important and largest Mevlevihanes in Anatolia, following the Konya Mevlevihanesi. It was established in the late 14th century by Sultan Divani (Mehmet Semai Çelebi), the grandson of Mevlana Celaleddin-i Rumi. Thanks to its geographical location, Afyonkarahisar became an important trade and cultural crossroads during the Seljuk and Ottoman periods, which facilitated the rooting of Mevlevilik in this area. The Afyon Mevlevihanesi has served for centuries not only as a place of worship but also as a center for education, culture, and art. It reflects a typical mevlevihane complex with sections such as the semahane, dervish cells, matbah (kitchen), and tomb. The burial of Sultan Divani here has further enhanced the spiritual value of the center. During the Ottoman Empire, Mevlevihanes were places where significant artistic and literary activities took place, and this tradition continued in Afyon as well. The Afyon Mevlevihanesi also played a strategic role, especially during the War of Independence, supporting the National Struggle and serving as a recovery center for wounded soldiers. Although it lost its function with the closure of lodges and convents during the Republic period, it was restored in the 1990s and revitalized as a cultural center. Today, the Mevlevihane, used as a museum and cultural center, is one of the places that best reflects Afyon's spiritual and cultural richness from the Seljuk and Ottoman periods. The wooden craftsmanship and acoustic structure of the semahane are still impressive to visitors.

Visit Tips

• The Mevlevihane is close to the Afyon Museum; it can be included in the tour route.
• Visiting hours are similar to museum hours; they may be closed on Mondays.
• Entry is paid; Museum Card is valid.
• Make sure to see the semahane section and learn about Mevlevi culture.

Photos