When traveling, there is no shortage of photo-worthy moments. It’s also quite tempting to take a selfie at some historic landmarks, a little something to prove you were there. But there are places you never have to already take a “cute” photo at. There are many cool places to take selfies. There are, however, other places where it is considered disrespectful, inappropriate or even forbidden to take pictures. Check out our list of important historic sites where it is not recommended to pose for a photo. While some of these places may seem like common sense, it’s never a bad idea to double-check the protocol surrounding selfies when visiting certain historic landmarks.
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ten Auschwitz
Anything related to the Holocaust is a big no-no. The gates of Auschwitz especially stand out when you find yourself on the grounds of a concentration camp where literally millions of people have died. There are also many memorials and museums around the world which can be a very depressing experience and are certainly worth a visit, but are not the place to take pictures of yourself. Some people who took selfies on these sites even went viral and received a lot of reactions on social media. It’s not worth the shot !
9 September 11 Memorial
The 9/11 Memorial in New York City is both heartbreaking and breathtakingly beautiful. The memorial pools – a sort of fountain with the name of every person lost in the 9/11 attacks engraved into the bronze structure – are absolutely serene. The Tree of Survivors, a tree that was cut down after it miraculously remained standing after the destructive attacks, is a reminder of the nation’s resilience after the tragedy. Although these features may be considered worthy of an image, put yourself in the photo is not beautiful.
8 Vietnam Memorial
Over 58,000 people lost their lives during the Vietnam War. With so much loss, there is apparently no empty space on the great wall of names erected in memory of the veterans who sacrificed their lives. The structure of Washington DC is overwhelming, and it’s understandable that this is a visit tourists consider a must visit. While taking pictures of thousands of names – especially if you are related to one of those names – is generally not frowned upon, inserting yourself into the picture can be seen as obnoxious by many who are there to cry. and remember their beloved. those lost in war.
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7 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in the United Arab Emirates is simply extravagant. Nevertheless, it is important to keep in mind the importance of the mosque to the cultures of many people and to research tourist etiquette before visiting it. There are some things that you are not allowed to wear, and although tours are available, it is always important to be mindful of those who are there praying. While the architecture is exquisite and should definitely be captured in a photo, a security guard will confront yourself if you take a selfie, as this is considered disrespectful. No matter who you are, many celebrities have come under fire for breaking these rules!
6 Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Hiroshima, Japan, was the first city in the world to suffer an atomic bomb in 1945. Thousands of people were killed, and there is now a park honoring lost lives and pleading for world peace. A notable feature of the park is the A-Bomb Dome, which is what remains of a building that was closest to the initial explosion. There is also a statue of a child to symbolize the many children who were killed in the attack. These two landmarks see the most selfies, and the talk has been going on for years as to whether it’s appropriate or not. To stay safe, we advise you not to take a photo of yourself.
5 Rwandan genocide memorials
There are multiple memorials to the Rwandan genocide, all poignant in their own way. The Kigali Genocide Memorial Center contains the bodies of 250,000 victims, some in mass graves, others with their skulls literally exposed. The Murambi genocide memorial also features skeletons and entire bodies. The Nyamata genocide memorial still has traces of the blood of those who died there. Needless to say, these areas are not the place for a selfie.
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4 Red light district
Many tourists feel the urge to satisfy their curiosity about Amsterdam’s infamous red light district. Amsterdam has just announced that it is banning guided tours, and it is an unspoken rule that photos are not allowed. Not just yourself, anything or anyone. The red lights look super cool, but many tourists have reported incidents of berating or even physical eviction from the area after being caught taking pictures. With all the deleterious events in the Red Light District, this should come as no surprise!
3 Sixtine Chapel
The Sistine Chapel is another example of an iconic place where you should not only refrain from taking selfies, but also taking photos in general. The ceiling artwork by Michelangelo in the 1500s is absolutely stunning and well worth a visit. However, as many security guards will unpleasantly remind you, your camera should be stowed away, no exceptions. This rule has been in place for decades, as the area is meant for silent contemplation. No worries, however. There are a lot other magnificent works of art and architecture of Vatican City that you are free to take pictures of.
2 Chernobyl
This travel destination is already a bit controversial due to security concerns. Still, many travelers choose to enter the Ghost Town and take some pretty haunting photos of a town that has been hastily abandoned. While you can still take tours and buy merchandise like many other typical tourist attractions, the selfie debate is still ongoing. The exclusion zone, in particular, is a top choice for many selfie-takers. While there aren’t any official rules that say you can’t take a photo of yourself, many people still argue it’s disrespectful. Whether you agree or not, it’s probably best to avoid if you want to stay out of internet drama.
1 Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington County, Virginia has approximately 400,000 soldier graves, some dating back to the Civil War. As in many other cemeteries and / or memorials, taking a selfie there is generally not considered the most elegant gesture. Taking a photo of a dead relative’s resting place is more understandable, but what if you just take a random photo of yourself? Again, be prepared for potentially harsh words and shame on social media. There are other requirements for visiting this particular cemetery, so be sure to do your research before visiting.
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