Are there any restrictions of taking photographs in Rome's visitor attractions?

Question

I'm visiting the major attractions and was wondering what the policy would be on taking pictures. I thought the vatican might have restrictions as it is a religious building. All help gratefully received. Thanks

Answer 1

You can't take photos in the Sistene chapel - the Vatican, however is fine.

Make sure you do not expose your shoulders (bring a shawl) and your skirt/shorts should cover your knees when entering religious buildings - they are very strict about this and will turn you away if too much flesh is exposed.

Answer 2

I've not long come back from Rome myself - It is a beautiful city!!!

Plenty of photo oppertunities!!!

From what i can remember there wasn't alot of restrictions really even in the vatican. The only place I got told to stop taking pictures was in the Sistine Chapel itself but thats about it! you can take pictures in the (many) unavoidable museums that lead up to the chapel but your not aloud to take pictures of the actual chapel itself.

Mind you I still managed to get about 3 pics. it was that crouded in the chapel they didn't really notice (especially if you do it on the sly ;-p

I would definately recommend going to see the Basillica and the walk to the top of St Peters Dome (narrow slopped corridors are a bit scary and you will be ready to have a heart attack when you get to the top (especially if your a smoker like me!) but it is totally worth it!

Oh and dont forget St Angelo's Castle by the river.

Have to say Sistine chapel was a bit of a disappointment but thats just my personal opinion.

Have fun!!!

Answer 3

As far as I know, the Vatican is restricted inside the buildings.

Please, please, PLEASE respect the cultural heritage of Italians and TURN OFF YOUR FLASH on your camera, if you want to take pictures inside museums and are allowed.

The light inside of many places is strictly controlled because it can cause paint pigment to fade over time. Of course, the care taken with preserviing works of art is rendered void when some idiot tourist thinks they can take a picture of a painting and leaves their flash on because it's dark ...

You want a reproduction, spend a little money and buy a poster of the work of art.

Sorry questioner, that's a bit of a rant on my part, and let me stress it's not directed at you personally, it's a bit of a major peeve of mine, that people have such little concern for important works of art.  

Answer 4

Sometimes there is many restrictions of taking many photos but only to protect so ancient wall paintings.

Anyway,you will found some signs that say when it is not allowed taking photographs.

Enjoy in Rome!

Answer 5

Some of the art galleries won't let you take flash photography and no photography at all is allowed in the Sistene Chapel. You can take pictures in the Vatican but no flash photography.

Answer 6

Hi!..I live in Rome...so I don't speak english very well..

Anyway..there aren't any restriction of taking photographs..just you can't use flash..and in some churches you can't use a camera at all!..

Answer 7

You can take all the photos you want unless they say you can't.

Yes, you can in the Vatican but not inside the Sistine Chapel.

Answer 8

Hello,

The easy answer is that you will see signs posted where you cannot take pictures or use flash.  All churches have signs warning against flash photography.  Most museums will allow photography but without the flash.  If no photography at all is allowed it will be posted where everyone can see it.  You can take all the pictures you want in the outdoor sites as well as the pantheon.

The main thing they worry about is the effects of flash on frescoes, tapestries and paintings.  It is very damaging.  

Most churches and museums will sell pictures of the insides so you can take the memories home with you.  

Donna

Answer 9

I don't think you can take photos in the vatican. They probably want you to buy pics outside.

Answer 10

maybe

Answer 11

You may take photos just about everywhere in Rome, and there is so much to see!  One of the things that concerned me on my last trip to Rome was the fact that statues in public squares now have fig leaves covering private parts, which I think is awful.  Other than that- take pictures everywhere.  Inside the Vatican, there are places where you are not permitted to take photos, and you will be reminded once there.  

In most areas containing precious works of art, you are asked to photograph without flash as the light will damage the artwork.  

Enjoy Rome and if you get a chance, try to visit Pompeii and Florence as well.  You won't regret it!

Answer 12

In the Sistine Chapel it is a big NO! In the Vatican  and the St. Peter's Basilica you can take pictures but with out the flash.Most places (churches & the like) are very clearly marked as you enter with symbols indicating the level of photography allowed: no-flash, or no-camera, or in the absense of any indication, you can safely assume it's OK to flash away. Most churches allow photos inside with some restrictions.

At St Peters, you can shoot photos to your heart's content, and the light is pretty good inside.

At the Borghese Galley no cameras are allowed. However, When I was there in May , I saw several people using their digital cameras without the flash.

Remember there is a dress code iat St. Peter's, Vatican and Sistine Chapel. As well as  all churches in Rome. It is strictly enforced.The Dress Code is strictly enforced at St. Peter's Basilica. No shorts, bare shoulders or miniskirts. This applies to both men and women. Even if you get through security, you will be turned away by the attendants at the door. On a hot summer day,  dozens of men in shorts  have been turned away.

Answer 13

I went picture crazy in Rome.  I know they don't let you take pictures of paintings, because the flash over time ruins them.  But others places I would see if anyone else is taking pictures or you could ask someone. Make sure you have plenty of film, because there are so many beautiful things to take pictures of.

Answer 14

I am Italian living near Rome, and not worry for the photos, you can do everywhere except perhaps in some museums and says it is forbidden to make photos! even in churches type san pietro you can do, the Vatican does not matter nothing! here in Italy there are laws 10000000, but those that are enforced are very few! Cia Hello