Overview:

: Mevlana Cultural Center is a public institution in Konya, Turkey, dedicated to promoting the culture and philosophy of Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, an influential 13th-century Sufi poet and teacher. The center which opened in 2000 is housed in the majestic building formerly known as the Mevlana Tekke (lodge) which dates back to the 16th century. The center is a place for visitors from around the world to learn more about the legacy of Rumi and the rich cultural heritage of Konya. It offers visitors exhibits with art, artifacts, photographs, recordings, architecture, and other elements related to Mevlana. The center also hosts a variety of cultural events, lectures, conferences, art exhibitions, concerts and performances. It is one of the most beautiful monuments in Turkey
Prominent Features:

1. A place of worship: The Mevlana Cultural Center is a religious complex dedicated to the memory of the 13th century Persian Sufi poet, Rumi (also known as Mevlana). The center includes the Mevlana Mosque, as well as several more tombs and shrines which have attracted pilgrims over the centuries. 2. Historical significance: The Mevlana Cultural Center serves as an important symbol of the spread of Sufism across the world. It also stands as a reminder of Konya’s role in preserving the religious tradition that began with Rumi’s teachings. 3. Center for Culture and Learning: The center also serves as an important center of cultural learning, hosting lectures, concerts, art exhibitions and poetry readings. 4. UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Mevlana Cultural Center is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been recognized for its unique history and religious significance. 5. Beautiful Architecture: The Mevlana Cultural Center has stunning Islamic architecture that has attracted visitors over the years. The complex also features ornate tombs and shrines with colorful mosaics and stained-glass windows. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Turkey.

History:

Mevlana Cultural Center is a cultural complex and museum located in the city of Konya, in the Central Anatolia region of Turkey. It is named after Mevlana Jalaluddin Rumi, a 13th century theologian and poet whose teachings have influenced many perspectives of human consciousness including Sufism, Islamic belief, and popular culture. This cultural complex was constructed in 1976 to promote the teachings of the poet-saint Rumi and to encourage a culture of peace and understanding. It comprises a museum, a scientific research center, libraries, archives, a publishing house, and a conference center. The museum houses a library containing over 3000 manuscripts and 3500 books of Mevlanan teachings as well as other historical manuscripts and books. The complex also features an auditorium which holds traditional ceremonies, and hosts musical, theatrical, and artistic performances. It also has a multi-purpose cultural center and a tea room. Visitors to the Mevlana Cultural Center can explore the exhibits, listen to lectures by experts, and enjoy live performances. The complex also encourages its visitors to get involved in its activities, from holding seminars to writing for its publication. The Mevlana Cultural Center has become a popular destination for those who want to learn more about the teachings of Rumi and to experience the cultural traditions of Konya. Visit one of the famous monuments of Turkey with your friends and family.

Interesting facts:

1. Mevlana Cultural Center is located close to the Mausoleum of the Sufi poet and philosopher, Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi. 2. It was opened on 17 March 2009 on the 750th anniversary of the death of Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi. 3. The Mevlana Cultural Center is the largest visitor center of Konya, hosting over 330,000 visitors each year. 4. It is the largest cultural center in Turkey, with a total area of 35,000 m2. 5. The center is centered around the tomb chamber of Mevlana Jelaluddin Rumi and contains a library, an auditorium, an exhibition hall, a conference hall, a restaurant, and a gift shop. 6. The main exhibition hall is centered around the tomb of Rumi and contains a seven-meter tall statue of the poet, designed by artist Turan Demirkaya. 7. Every year in December, the Mevlana Cultural Center hosts the annual Mevlana Festival, which includes three days of poetry, music and dance performances. 8. In 2010, the Mevlana Cultural Center was awarded the International Award of Merit in Architecture by the LEAF Awards, an international architectural awards program. One of the historical monuments of Turkey, it tells the story of a bygone era