Reina Sofía Lifts 30-Year Photo Ban on Picasso's Guernica

Since September 1, 2023, visitors to the Museo Reina Sofía in Madrid can photograph Picasso's Guernica (1937) without flash, tripods, or selfie sticks. The 30-year ban was lifted by new director Manuel Segade, appointed in June 2023. The museum hopes to reduce crowding and attract younger, social-media-savvy audiences. Segade aims for 100% photographic accessibility, acknowledging that young people experience reality filtered through screens. The policy change has reignited debate on photographing art in museums. While a Cambridge University study by Martin Evans found flash-free photography causes insignificant damage, critics argue it diminishes contemplative engagement. In Italy, many museums still prohibit photography, notably the Sistine Chapel.