Religions

Demographics

  • The major religion in Italy is Christianity, specifically the Catholic Church

General Etiquette for Visiting Places of Worship

  • Many of the 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
  • Be aware and considerate of those who are praying
  • Speak quietly
  • Your phone should be switched to silent upon entering any grounds of worship
  • Don’t use your phone (texting or talking)
  • Don’t point with your fingers or touch statues
  • Don’t have inappropriate conversations
  • Don’t chew gum
  • Don’t walk in front of others praying
  • Don’t walk across or in front of statues or other holy items
  • Don’t eat (have your picnic elsewhere!)

Photography — Flash or Otherwise

  • Many cathedrals don’t allow flash photography and some don’t allow any type of pictures or videos
  • Look around for signs and directions before
  • Always ask a guard or official if in doubt

Proper Dress

  • Dress to visit a cathedral can be casual
  • Always remove your hat when entering a cathedral
  • Regardless of gender, don’t wear revealing clothing. You should cover your
    – Shoulders
    – Legs above the knee
    – Stomach/midriff

Worship Etiquette

  • You may pray or worship at sacred sites
  • Be genuine and never mock
Lighting Candles
  • Typically worshippers light them when entering the cathedral
  • Worshippers light them as they pray, making an offering to accompany their prayers
  • There are certain times, when candles should not be lit (usually during the service); ask a church usher if in doubt
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
  • You should blot any lipstick beforehand

During a Service

  • Dress appropriately
  • 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
  • Arrive at the church before the service starts
  • During the service, there are some moments when no one should be moving around
  • One basic rule: whenever the priest faces the people or is outside the altar on the solea, either censing or blessing, everyone should stand wherever they are
  • Refrain from chewing gum or using a cell phone/camera during a service
  • Refrain from slouching or crossing your legs
  • If you choose to receive the Holy Communion, you should eat it carefully so no crumbs fall
  • Don’t leave the church before dismissal
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