Bektashi dervish lodges in crete

Abstract

Bektashism was founded in Anatolia in the 13th century and Haci Bektas Veli (d. 1271) is one of the first orders wasseen in Crete. Bektashism was brought to the island by Bektashi Sheikh Horasanizâde Dervis Ali Dede in army during the conquest of Crete, and in time it was brought to Heraklion, Chania and Rethymno apart from Horasanli Lodge. It had the names of İbrahim Baba, Cavyvillage, Mustafa Dede and Hasan Baba. Bektashism was banned in 1826 with the Janissaries ans Crete Bektashi lodges were also affected by the incident. However, since the end of the period of Sultan Mahmud II., as the softening of the prohibitionist policies in other areas, it also led to revival of Crete Bektashism. Bektashism made progress in Crete and became wide spread with Dervish Ali Baba's (1810-1926) activities from postnisin of Khorasan Lodge. Bektashism continued to exist until the collapse of the Ottoman Empire in Crete. However, as a result of the island's exit from the Turkish authorities and the population exchange with Turkey, Bektashism lost its effectiveness. In this study, historical progress of Bektashism will be discussed especially in light of archives and available resources on the island of Crete.