Iconic sites where photography is forbidden (2024)

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Published by Aiden Daries on August 7, 2024

Tourists often document their travels through photography, but certain places have strict no-photography rules due to security, privacy or cultural reasons.

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The Sistine Chapel, Vatican City

In the Sistine Chapel within the Apostolic Palace, photography is banned to protect its delicate artwork and maintain the sanctity of the space. Michelangelo’s famous frescoes, painted between 1508 and 1512, are a cornerstone of High Renaissance art.

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Iconic sites where photography is forbidden (9)

While daytime photos of the Eiffel Tower are allowed, photographing the illuminated tower at night is technically illegal. The night-time light display, designed by Pierre Bideau and inaugurated in 1985, is considered an artistic work protected by copyright. This rule is generally overlooked for personal use, but commercial use without permission can lead to legal issues.

The Alamo, USA

At the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas, photography is forbidden inside the buildings to maintain respect for those who died there during the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. Visitors are encouraged to experience the history and solemnity without the distraction of cameras. Photography is permitted in the gardens and exterior areas.

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The Taj Mahal, India

Inside the main mausoleum of the Taj Mahal, photography is prohibited to help preserve the delicate marble work and maintain a respectful atmosphere. The 42-acre complex, commissioned in 1631, includes a mosque and a guest house, and houses the tombs of the fifth Mughal emperor and his beloved wife.

Iconic sites where photography is forbidden (11)

The Tower of London’s Crown Jewels, UK

Photography of the Crown Jewels in the Tower of London is strictly forbidden to ensure their security and preservation. The jewels, including coronation regalia and vestments worn by British monarchs, date back around 350 years to the reign of Charles II.

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Iconic sites where photography is forbidden (12)

The Sistine Chapel of Nature, Hawaii

In Molokini Crater, Hawaii, certain areas restrict photography to protect the delicate marine ecosystem, which includes approximately 250 marine species and 38 hard coral species. The crescent-shaped volcanic crater is a popular scuba diving and snorkelling destination with exceptional visibility.

Iconic sites where photography is forbidden (13)

The Catacombs of Paris, France

While you can take photos in some parts of the Catacombs of Paris, many areas strictly prohibit photography to respect the remains of the millions of Parisians buried there and prevent overcrowding. The ossuaries, holding remains of more than six million people, have been open to the public since 1874.

Red Light District, Amsterdam, Netherlands

In Amsterdam’s Red Light District, De Wallen, photography of the windows displaying sex workers is strictly prohibited to protect their privacy and safety. Tourists are expected to respect this rule and avoid taking photos in these areas.

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Uluru, Ayers Rock, Australia

At Uluru/Ayers Rock in Australia, photography is allowed from certain viewpoints, but specific areas, particularly sacred sites, prohibit it to respect the Indigenous Anangu people’s cultural practices. The landmark, a dual-named site since 1993, has been a popular tourist destination since the late 1930s.

Iconic sites where photography is forbidden (16)

Westminster Abbey, UK

Inside Westminster Abbey, photography is not allowed to preserve the atmosphere of worship and respect the historical significance of the site. The abbey, used for coronations and royal weddings since 1066, is the burial place for many English and British monarchs. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate its beauty and history without their cameras.