Religious centers of worship are special places steeped in spiritual significance. Thus, it is important to conduct oneself well, offering reverence and respect in the surroundings and toward others.
Tips for visiting cathedrals:
- To understand the significance of the cathedral, do your research on its history ahead of your visit. Also discover directions, hours of operation, and visitor ticket options should they exist.
- Note that active places of worship, like cathedrals, host mass on Sundays and weddings and funerals, too. Always check Archdiocesan events before scheduling a visit.
- Should you wish to schedule a time for communal prayer in a chapel, plan it in advance.
- Some popular religious sights have tourist lines to view the interior, climb towers, and explore. To avoid waiting in line, visitors may wish to go off-season or at off-peak hours instead.
- Whenever possible, take advantage of guided tours that share history. Special ones can provide access to areas that are not open to the public.
- Audio tours are cost-effective alternatives to personal guided tours. Typically, audio is available in multiple languages to include English.
- Understand in advance how much walking or step climbing is required. Wear sensible footwear, especially when visiting cathedrals that sit high above town or those that offer areas to explore involving steps.
- Inquire about accessible facilities if needed, such as elevators, parking, and restrooms.
- When visiting active places of worship, appropriate dressing is strongly encouraged.
- Do not bring food or beverages inside, nor eat or drink or chew gum.
- Do not smoke indoors. If you must smoke outdoors, do so in designated areas.
- Children should not be permitted to run free. Supervision is required.
- Never touch the altar, bibles, candles, artwork, flowers, or displays. Visitors are asked to behave reverently and respectfully by keeping their hands to themselves.
- Those interested in photography should consider timing. Visit during sunset or sunrise for optimal exterior photos.
- For interior photos, follow proper etiquette. Do not snap pics where “no photo” signs are posted and keep your flash off when indicated. Additionally, avoid the use of selfie-sticks.
- Do not take photos of people worshipping. To do so is extremely disrespectful and an invasion of their privacy.
- Since cathedrals often appeal to tourists, they can attract pickpockets. Never leave your bags unattended. Also, keep your guard up when strolling outdoors.
- Kindly remember that most cathedrals in France are active places of worship. Because you are in a holy setting, strive to be polite, quiet, and respectful of others and of your surroundings. If you must speak, do so in hushed tones.
- Consider leaving small donations, especially at cathedrals that do not charge admission. Not only is this a way to show your appreciation, but it is also a way to do your part in helping to preserve and maintain the facility and what’s in it.
These tips for visiting cathedrals provide helpful ways in which to conduct oneself in a religious setting.
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