Imagine this: for the very first time in history, the mesmerizing whirling dervish dance, known as sema, was performed right in front of the majestic Roman Colosseum! Yes, you read that right — the ancient amphitheater, once a battleground for gladiators, has now become a stage for spiritual elegance and a visual spectacle that left the audience spellbound.
This unique event was organized by the cultural authorities of Istria and Turkey, blending two cultures in a magical performance that delivers a universal message of peace and love. The sema dance, listed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, is deeply rooted in the teachings of Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, the great 13th-century Sufi mystic and poet.
Rumi, born into a Turkish family in what is now Afghanistan, is known worldwide as one of the most widely read philosophers and spiritual thinkers. His works, like the “Masnavi” with over 50,000 verses, promote tolerance, divine love, and spiritual purification. His poetry has been translated into 26 languages, including Turkish, English, French, Spanish, Arabic, and even Kyrgyz.
The sema ceremony, performed by dervishes dressed in white robes and tall hats, symbolizes the spiritual path and unity with the divine. During the dance, the right hand is turned towards the sky to receive God’s grace, while the left hand faces the earth to share that grace with people. This dance is not just art; it is deep meditation and prayer.
In 2008, UNESCO declared sema a masterpiece of the oral and intangible heritage of humanity, and every year in the Turkish city of Konya, an international commemoration is held marking the anniversary of Rumi’s union with God.
This event in Rome is not just a cultural spectacle but a powerful bridge between East and West, reminding us how important it is to nurture peace, love, and understanding among peoples. If you thought the Colosseum was just for tourists and historical tours, think again — it is now a place where spirituality and art merge into an unforgettable experience.
So, have you ever seen the whirling dervish dance live? Or maybe you have a favorite spiritual performance that left you breathless? Drop a comment, share your thoughts, or just crack a joke — because moments like these deserve to be talked about!
