What should I wear when visiting the churches and cathedrals in Rome?

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Fogjazz49-Retired

It's been a while since I was there, but the guideline I remember is that they like your shoulders to be covered, no tank or halter tops. I just kept a big scarf in my bag and wrapped it around my shoulders like a shawl when needed. No shorts or super short skirts is also a good idea. I had no trouble with sandals, though... nice ones, but I wore them everywhere.

It's very good of you to ask. I think its a sign of respect to honor anyone's preferences when you are visiting their religious areas. I was kind of irritated while travelling through the Muslim coastal islands of Thailand that our guide told everyone to ignore Muslim dress codes when we toured through the villages, and half the women went parading right through in shorts and tank tops. I don't agree with Muslim beliefs about keeping women veiled and hidden from view, but our presence like that so obviously offended and distressed the villagers that I felt bad. When you are in someone else's home you should respect their customs, within reason.

ontheroadagainwithoutyou

this isn't just about respect-they will NOT let you in unless your arms and legs are covered. they have guards at the doors and they very strictly enforce the dress code. i saw some very disappointed people get turned away from entering the vatican.

bonnie_hunter344

You can wear anything I guess, just don't look like you're make a porn film. Jeans are fine as long as they look nice. I've lived in Italy for two years and have been to many Churches, just look nice.

digimutt

I know that you must hav a shawl or scarf to cover your head and I don't think they want so much skin showing. would you wear it to church might be a good guide

silv2078

At the Vatican they say they have a strict dress code that your shoulders and knees should be covered (man or woman). However I overheard a tourguide (while in line @ the Vatican Museum) say that if you're an attractive girl the guards are too busy looking at you to realize what you're wearing.

Anyway...just keep your shoulders covered and no daisy dukes and you're good to go. Catholic churches aren't totally strict (nothing like muslim mosques) but it's nice to show respect.

parrotjohn2001

Dress the way you would if you were going to church in this country. Italians are a pretty tolerant people, but they are a very religious people as well.
Be respectful, dress modestly and you should be fine.
Sandals are probably ok, Jesus wore them.
Tank tops are a definite NO.

baja annie

One idea is to bring a large scarf or pashima that you can use to put over your shorts so it will appear as if you are wearing a skirt. It will also double up as a cape to cover your shoulders or as a blanket if you are cold on the airplane or train. Very versatile and a travel must!

Sandals are okay. Tank tops are questionable - rule of thumb is no bare shoulders and no knees! But, you will see people wearing anything and everything which is kind of a shame. Don't be "an ugly American" while travelling and obey the rules and traditions.

brains

I think they wear Toga's,,,you know white sheets draped around them and sandals ,

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