The Vatican is the smallest country in the world. It is an enclave within Italy, located in Rome, with only 825 citizens, including church officials, priests, nuns, and the Swiss Guard. It is a place of great significance for Catholics, but it also attracts tourists from around the world.
She Wanted to Enter the Basilica, but a Security Guard Stopped Her at the Entrance: "This Ban Really Surprised Me"
St. Peter’s Basilica is one of the main tourist attractions in the Vatican. Built between 1506 and 1626, it serves as the resting place of several popes, including saints like Leo the Great, Leo III, Pius X, and John Paul II. It is a must-see destination for pilgrims, but it turns out not everyone can enter.
A TikTok user, known as Lektorka Języka Polskiego, shared her experience from a trip to the Vatican, where she went with some friends and her five-month-old son. After passing through security, a guard approached her and told her she couldn't enter with a stroller.
I asked why, and he rudely asked if I could see anyone else with a stroller here. (...) This ban really surprised me because the Church is so family-oriented, it defends unborn children, but once you have the child, you can't bring a stroller into the basilica
- she explained in the video. The TikToker decided to carry her son in her arms, after which she was allowed to enter the church.
Why Can’t You Enter the Basilica with a Stroller? Internet Users Have Many Theories
Viewers were quick to comment on the video, offering various theories as to why a mother with a stroller was not allowed into the church.
- "A very logical ban. It’s for your own safety. Entering with a stroller makes security checks more difficult, and someone could smuggle explosives or chemical substances, so kudos to the security team."
- "There are signs that say strollers aren’t allowed. Why? Because it’s crowded. It’s hard to move around as it is, let alone with a stroller."
- "Child safety: there's a big crowd, and in case of panic, it would be harder to escape or ensure safe passage with a stroller."
It turns out that according to the rules of St. Peter’s Basilica, the same security measures apply as those at airports. As a result, items like knives, long umbrellas, backpacks, and suitcases are not allowed inside. Strollers are also prohibited, with exceptions made for individuals with disabilities. All belongings must be left in the cloakroom before entering the basilica.
