I traveled in Fall of 2013 across the Mediterranean through multiple countries. A disclaimer before I tell this story- at the time, I was in college with a group of friends while studying abroad, and so spontaneity was more valued than planning. The night before our last stop of Rome, we decided to make our way to the Vatican first (I would never be caught last minute planning now!). I was so excited to send pictures back home to my Nonna, but by the time we made it to Vatican City, my cute and comfy maxi dress for the day of traveling became my worst enemy. I couldn't enter any major religious building. I came all that way just to miss out on gorgeous sights and even better photos to send back home. So - in honor of all the Nonnas out there - here are a few customs and rules to be aware of before your next trip to Italy!
Respect at the Vatican
We know many of you may want to book a stop at Vatican City while you're in the area. And while it is the smallest sovereign state, it is entirely dedicated to the Catholic religion. When visiting the Vatican City, think of it less as touristy sight-seeing and more as respecting a cultural or heritage site. While there, shoulders and knees should be covered at all times and hats removed indoors -especially in holy buildings like the Sistine Chapel and Saint Peter's Basilica or on Wednesdays when the Pope holds public audience. If you travel in the warmer weather like I did, bring a cardigan or shawl to wear and take off later.
Pro tip: Lots of walking happens here, so dress as practically as possible in addition to following the rules. (No heels because of the cobblestones!).
Last, bring your camera or phone, but no photos are allowed inside the Sistine Chapel. Photography without flash is permitted in the Basilica and museums. Plus the courtyards are beautiful to take many of your pictures outside and in front of the buildings!
Being Mindful at The Duomo, Milan
The location and culture surrounding the Duomo and it's courtyard can seem very relaxed - there is literally a mall on one side of the courtyard. But don't let the shops and fast food deter from the fact that this is still a holy site. In fact, food and drink are not even allowed inside the cathedral. One of the largest churches in the world, The Duomo of Milan is a sight to behold. And while its grandeur is obvious from the outside, it is even more spectacular being up close to the architectural details. The Duomo is another religious site, and therefore shoulders and knees should be covered within the cathedral. While photography is allowed, turn off your cell phones, as it is a place of prayer. Most important is that security can check for identification for international visitors, so it is best to have your passport with you.
Pay Homage to Pompeii and/or Herculaneum
Pompeii is a must -see. It's lesser known neighboring village was Herculaneum- which was covered in a slower falling ash- has equally striking ruins to visit. Besides the history behind Mount Vesuvius, the preservation of these towns give so much insight to Italian culture of the past. It is important to remember when visiting that Pompeii is an active archaeological site. This means a few things:
Stay on the marked paths.
Wear good walking shoes as there is naturally a lot of walking on the terrain.
Everything you see is an ancient artifact or fossil- in no way should you touch or mark any ancient artifact, not even to lean or brush against to get a picture. Seriously, don't be those kind of tourists. No touching, means no touching.
Food is only permitted in certain areas and there are few trash cans in the area, so make sure any and all waste you bring into the park gets into a bin or comes out with you.
Additionally- and really this goes for many places you visit - do not bring anything that is natural away from the site, including no picking flowers or taking rocks from the area. The goal of Pompeii is to ensure the future of the archeological site for research and for future generations - so do your part!
Wondering about the customs at your next destination? Don't worry- we're here to help!
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