We’re sure you already knew the largest religion in Italy, Spain, and France is Christianity, specifically the Catholic Christianity. But do you know proper etiquette for entering and worshiping in a Catholic cathedral? In this post, we’ll cover what you shouldn’t wear, how you can politely take pictures, and more. After all, you don’t want to give your country a bad name! Here are some tips to help you out on your next excursion to Italy:

Before you go, you should know:

Many of Italy’s best sights are cathedrals, basilicas, or other edifices considered holy. Remember that many of these sacred sites are also living quarters for monks and nuns.

Please do:

• Be aware and considerate of those who are praying or worshiping
• Speak quietly
• Switch your phone to silent upon entering any grounds of worship

Please don’t:

• Use your phone (texting or talking)
• Point with your fingers or touch statues
• Have inappropriate conversations
• Chew gum
• Walk in front of others praying
• Walk across or in front of statues or other holy items 
• Eat (have your picnic elsewhere!)

Taking photos:

Many cathedrals don’t allow flash photography and some don’t allow any type of pictures (or videos) at all. So look around for signs and directions before you enter the area. When in doubt, always ask a guard or official before you take pictures. If pictures are allowed without flash, be sure your flash is off before taking a photo. Remember, it’s inappropriate to take photos during mass or ceremony.

Proper dress:

Dress to visit a cathedral can be casual. Always remove your hat when entering a cathedral and keep it off while you’re inside. For both genders, don’t wear revealing clothing. If you do have a more revealing outfit, consider bringing a scarf you can wrap around your shoulders or waist so that you are covered appropriately. You should cover your: 

• Shoulders
• Legs above the knee
• Stomach/midriff

Worship etiquette:

If you’d like to, you may pray or worship at sacred sites. But be genuine in your worship and never mock.

Lighting candles

You may see others lighting candles as part of their worship. Typically, worshipers light them when they enter the cathedral and as they pray. It’s appropriate to donate a small amount for each candle (this makes an offering to accompany the prayer). There are certain times, when candles should not be lit (usually during the service). If you’re unsure, ask a church usher.

Venerating (kissing) icons

It is traditional for worshipers to venerate (kiss) the icons located in the narthex. You don’t have to do this. If you do venerate an icon, remember it is improper to kiss an icon on the face. Blot any lipstick beforehand.

During a service

Although casual dress is fine, it’s appropriate to dress nicer for an actual service. For men, wear a suit and tie or a sports jackets and slacks with a tie. For women, have your shoulders covered, and dresses/skirts should be knee length or longer. It’s polite to arrive at the church before the service starts. Remember that during the service, there are some moments when no one should be moving around. Here’s one basic rule to help you during service:

Whenever the priest faces the people or is outside the altar on the solea, everyone should stand wherever they are.

Refrain from the following during a service:

• Chewing gum
• Using a cell phone or camera
• Slouching
• Crossing your legs

If you choose to receive the Holy Communion, you should eat it carefully so no crumbs fall. It may be tempting to sneak out before the service is over, but don’t leave the church before dismissal.

That’s it! With those tips, you should blend in like a local the next time you visit a place of worship in Italy. In our Italy, Spain, and France programs, there are tons of chances to visit amazing churches. Have you been to an Italian cathedral before?