VISITING CHURCHES:
Church Etiquette in Italy

The Vatican
©Charmaine Tanti 2024

Italy has some of the world’s most beautiful Catholic churches. Every year, thousands flock to see St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome or St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, as well as the numerous lesser-known churches all over Italy. However, it is good to keep in mind that churches are not only works of art and treasures of human heritage, but first and foremost sacred spaces that are still regularly used by the locals on a daily basis. It is therefore important to show the respect due to such places and not to cause any offence. Below are some tips for observing church etiquette in Italy.

Translation: The faithful and visitors are advised that tourist visits during services are not allowed, moreover: even the body has its language – dress with dignity, and respect the sacred space. Sleeveless clothes, mini-skirts or shorts are not allowed.

Church Etiquette in Italy Tip #1: Understand Local Customs

Visiting churches requires a certain level of respect and understanding of local customs, especially when it comes to attire and behaviour.

Basilica di Santa Francesca Romana, Rome
©Charmaine Tanti 2024

The website of the Catholic Church in Italy has this to say about tourists visiting churches:

‘In art churches which are available to everyone, Christian communities welcome … all those who wish to enter to pray, to pause in silence, to admire the works of sacred art... Christian communities ask tourists who wish to visit churches to observe certain rules regarding clothing and style of behaviour and above all the most rigorous respect for silence, in order to facilitate the climate of prayer: even during tourist visits … churches continue to be "houses of prayer".’

Respecting church etiquette when visiting churches in Italy is not just about following rules. It’s about honouring the cultural and religious heritage of these spaces and respecting the people who go there to pray. By dressing and behaving appropriately, you are showing respect for the faith and traditions of the local community.

Church Etiquette in Italy Tip #2: Observe the Dress Code

The dress code in churches applies to both men and women.

In a nutshell:

avoid sleeveless and/or low cut tops or dresses, spaghetti straps, and short skirts or shorts.
avoid transparent clothes
avoid beachwear, even if you are at a beach destination

If you’re wearing any of the above to walk around, especially in summer, but plan to visit churches, carry a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders and/or a sarong to cover your legs. Some churches provide scarves or other cover-ups you can borrow, but most don’t.

Be aware that some places, like the Vatican, are very strict about the dress code and will turn you away if you don’t observe it. Before visiting, check the church’s website or contact the local tourist information centre to ensure you are fully informed.

Church Etiquette in Italy Tip #3: Behave appropriately and respect silence

In addition to the dress code, it is good to be mindful of other customs and practices that are to be observed inside churches.

For example, it’s customary to:

speak in hushed tones, even if no service is going on
refrain from eating or drinking
avoid using flash photography
avoid disturbing services
not allow children to run around

Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli, Rome
©Charmaine Tanti 2024

Church Etiquette in Italy Tip #4: Observe appropriate behaviour if you enter a Church during a Service

Churches in Italy all hold services at some point or other during the day.

Here are some tips to keep in mind if you happen to enter a church while a service is taking place:

1. Pause and Observe: Before entering, take a moment to observe the service from the entrance. This helps you gauge the situation and determine whether it is appropriate to enter at that time.

2. Enter Quietly: If you decide to enter, do so quietly and unobtrusively. Avoid making any noise that could disrupt the service.

3. Remain Silent: Masses are solemn events, and maintaining silence is crucial. Whispering, talking, or making any noise is considered disrespectful.

4. Mobile Devices: Ensure your phone is on silent or turned off. Avoid using it for calls.

5. Refrain from Flash Photography: Many churches prohibit photography during services to maintain the sanctity of the event. Even if photography is allowed, never use flash as it can be disruptive.

6. Avoid Eating or Drinking: Consuming food or beverages inside a church is inappropriate. Finish any snacks or drinks before entering.

7. Avoid Moving Around Too Much: Once inside, minimise movement. Walking around to explore the church during a service is disrespectful. Wait until the service concludes to tour the church.

I find that the best way to make sure you get to visit a church properly without arriving in the middle of mass or other functions is to research ahead and have a look at the mass schedule. Some churches have times set aside for tourists and separate times for services, allowing you to plan your visit accordingly.

Also, it is good to keep in mind that different churches might have different customs and practices. What is acceptable in one place might not be in another, so it’s good to be informed.

Church Etiquette in Italy Tip #5: Respect areas reserved for prayer

Some of the major churches you visit might have an area reserved for prayer. This is an area, usually a side chapel, where the faithful can go to pray at any time, or where services are held, while leaving the rest of the church or cathedral free for visitors to walk about discreetly. It is therefore important to respect this area and steer clear, especially if people are praying.

Church Etiquette in Italy Bonus Tip: Donations

Unless you’re visiting the Vatican or some other famous church that requires entry tickets, you’ll find that the entrance to most churches is free of charge.

This includes some important churches as the Duomo in Florence, the Basilica of St Francis in Assisi where you can admire paintings by Giotto, or the church of San Pietro in Vincoli in Rome which houses the statue of Moses by Leonardo da Vinci.

In these cases, leaving a small donation is a gesture of appreciation for being allowed to visit, and also helps churches with the maintenance of their works of art.

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