Evaluation of the mevlevi lodge's acoustic properties: Mevlevi lodges of Istanbul

Mevlevi Lodges are one of the most special examples of the Islamic Architecture as well as the Ottoman Architecture. The Mevlevi Order, which can be identified as the Ottoman State sect of the Sufism, has a special position in Sufism tradition with its well defined structural organization. Mevlevian buildings; Mevlevi Lodges have also authentic architectural properties. There is a lack of research on Mevlevi Lodge's architecture which has a very special place within the Islamic Architecture. While there are a lot of study on mosques, comprehensive studies are required to understand the original acoustical features of the Lodges, especially Mevlevi Lodges. The Mevlevi ceremony during which a whirling dance is performed, determines the architecture of the Mevlevi Lodges. All of the Mevlevi Lodges shelter a somehow similar space due to the large circular area of the whirling hall. This common point provides geometrically similar architectural features. Whirling ceremony is an authentic combination of music and dance performed in large rooms; therefore it is part of the intangible acoustical heritage Acoustic properties of the Mevlevi lodges or whirling halls still need to be studied due to their authentic forms and large volume. With the current existing limited availability of researches, it is difficult to assess about the acoustic properties of this type of buildings. The aim of this research is to reveal the overall acoustic properties of the Mevlevi Lodges. In these assessments, unique identity of Mevlevi Music was also be taken into consideration. Galata, Bahariye and Yenikapı Mevlevi Lodges which are located in Istanbul selected for the research from among almost a hundred Mevlevi Lodges. Acoustics evaluations of the selected Mevlevi Lodges were done after the data held from in situ acoustical measurements and the Odeon 3D models. The results of the this research will provide information and findings about Mevlevi Lodge's acoustical properties as well as their differences from the western performance halls. The results of the research and the acoustics data of the Galata, Yenikapi and Bahariye Mevlevi Lodges were presented in this paper. Keywords: Room Acoustics, Mevlevi Lodges, Acoustics, Galata, Bahariye, Yenikapı