Yes, smiling is a legal requirement in one European city! Find out more!

Legal matters

Yes, smiling is a legal requirement in one European city! Find out more!

As you might already know, most laws came into existence following cultural common sense. But as we also know, common sense is not so common, or at least it varies depending on the country you’re visiting. In this article, you’ll read about some of the craziest laws out there that can save you from getting fined, or worse, during your next trip!

High heels are banned at ancient sites - Athens, Greece

Image: Amanda Vick

At famous archaeological sites like the Acropolis, high heels are not allowed. Thin heels can damage stone that has survived for thousands of years. The ban protects priceless history while saving visitors from a dangerous stumble. Flat shoes are a small price to pay for walking through ancient civilization, don’t you think?

Chewing gum sales are banned - Singapore

Image: Aleks Dorohovich

Singapore banned the import and sale of chewing gum after costly cleanup efforts in the early 1990s. Gum stuck to sidewalks, trains, and elevators caused serious maintenance problems. The ban helped keep the city clean, a reputation for which it is still famous nowadays!

It’s illegal to own just one goldfish - Zurich, Switzerland

Image: Thomas Park

In Switzerland, even goldfish have social expectations. The law considers them group animals, which means keeping a lone fish is frowned upon. This rule comes from Switzerland’s famously detailed animal welfare laws, designed to protect both emotional well-being and physical health. So if you are setting up a tank in Zurich, think of at least two friends to place there!

Kite flying is banned by law - Melbourne, Australia

Image: Thomas Oxford

It’s not that Australians are against fun, but in parts of the country, including Melbourne, flying a kite can land you in trouble. This rule falls under a group of laws meant to keep streets safe and uncluttered. Back when power lines and crowded public spaces became common, kites were more hazardous than a hobby.

Forgetting your wife’s birthday is a crime - Apia, Samoa

Image: Sergei Solo

In Samoa, forgetting your spouse’s birthday is technically against the law. While enforcement is more symbolic than strict, the rule reflects the country’s strong emphasis on family respect and responsibility. When it comes to family, they said, "Go big or go to jail!" Suddenly, calendars feel very important, don’t they?

Feeding pigeons is prohibited - Venice, Italy

Image: Soubhagya Ranjan

Venice’s pigeons once ruled the city squares, but officials eventually had enough. Feeding them is illegal due to the damage they cause to historic buildings and public health concerns. The rule helps preserve centuries-old stonework and keeps crowds manageable. The pigeons sure disagree, but the city breathes easier.

Smiling is legally required - Milan, Italy

Image: Lesly Juarez

In Milan, a historic regulation requires citizens to smile unless they are at a funeral or in a hospital. The rule dates back to Austro-Hungarian times and was never officially repealed. While it is rarely enforced, it remains on the books. Just in case, smile away!

Handling animals while drunk is illegal - Edinburgh, Scotland

Image: Jakob Cotton

An old Scottish law from 1872 bans caring for cows, horses, carriages, and, naturally, steam engines while intoxicated. It also specifically mentions riding cows, which certainly paints a vivid picture. The rule aimed to reduce accidents during the industrial era. We guess it made sense at the time!

Wearing armor in Parliament is forbidden - London, England

Image: Nik Shuliahin 💛💙

It is still illegal to wear a suit of armor inside the British Parliament. This law dates back to 1313, when armed nobles posed a real concern. Interestingly enough, there is also a long-standing rule stating you may not die in Parliament, though enforcement remains unclear. British tradition has a flair for drama, no surprise there!

You can marry someone who has passed away - Paris, France

Image: Sandy Millar

France allows posthumous marriage under very specific circumstances. The practice was used during the World Wars, when soldiers died before wedding plans could be completed. The law helped legitimize children and formalize relationships. It still exists today, although approval requires strong proof and a presidential decree.