Laws are meant to keep society in order, but sometimes, they take a detour into the absurd. From banning high heels to regulating goldfish companionship, here are 15 laws from around the world that will leave you questioning everything.
1. No Suits of Armor in British Parliament
If you ever had the urge to channel your inner knight and storm into British Parliament, think again. A law from 1313 still forbids wearing armor inside. Guess chainmail Mondays are off the table.
2. No Chewing Gum in Singapore
Singapore takes cleanliness seriously. Since the 1990s, importing or selling chewing gum has been illegal. If you’re a gum addict, better stock up before your flight!
3. No Flying Kites in Victoria, Australia
Public nuisance laws in Victoria prohibit flying kites where they might annoy someone. So if your neighbor isn’t a fan of your airborne masterpiece, you might be breaking the law.
4. Forget Your Wife’s Birthday? That’s a Crime in Samoa!
Forgetting your wife’s birthday is more than just a bad idea in Samoa—it’s actually illegal. No more excuses, gentlemen.
5. No Feeding Pigeons in Venice
Venice banned feeding pigeons in St. Mark’s Square to prevent feathery freeloaders from wreaking havoc on historic buildings. If you love tossing breadcrumbs, do it somewhere else.
6. Don’t Look After Steam Engines While Drunk (UK, 1872)
Apparently, this was a big enough problem in 19th-century Britain that they had to pass a law. So if you ever find yourself near a steam engine with a drink in hand—think twice!
7. High Heels Are Banned at Ancient Sites in Greece
Want to strut in heels at the Acropolis? Not happening. Greece banned stilettos at historical sites to protect the ruins. Sensible shoes only, please.
8. Prison Break? Totally Legal in Denmark
Denmark has an interesting take on crime—escaping from prison isn’t actually illegal. Of course, getting caught means you’re right back where you started.
9. You Can Marry a Dead Person in France
If your significant other passed away before the wedding, France allows posthumous marriages under special circumstances. Romantic or just plain creepy? You decide.
10. The Queen Owns All of England’s Swans
Yes, you read that right. A law from centuries ago declares that all mute swans in England technically belong to the monarch. No swan-stealing allowed.
11. Scots Can’t Wear Underwear Under Their Kilt (Old Law)
Tradition states that a "true Scotsman" wears nothing under his kilt. While this isn't exactly enforced, the idea of police conducting a "kilt check" is hilarious.
12. Herding Animals Have Right of Way in South Africa
Cows, goats, and other herding animals legally get priority on the road. So if you’re stuck in traffic behind a herd, just relax—they have the right of way.
13. One Goldfish? That’s Cruel in Switzerland
Switzerland has strict animal rights laws. Owning just one goldfish is illegal because they’re social creatures and need a friend. Imagine the Swiss government being more concerned about your fish’s social life than yours.
Laws can be practical, outdated, or just plain weird, but they all tell fascinating stories about culture, history, and priorities.
Which of these bizarre laws surprised you the most? Do you know of any other strange laws still in effect today? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
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