PURSES/backpacks in museums, etc.

Churches are not that restrictive.
But you should research the rules in advance at specific tourists sites on the day before you visit them or ask concierge before you set out.

It is no different than if you go to a museum or tourist site in Oklahoma for example http://www.okcmoa.com/visiting-faqs/

Most museums allow a purse, but you must check your backpacks. Seems like most churches and other sites allow small packs.

Museums often don't allow backpacks because they are potentially risky to displays (as well as hapless bystanders on the metro as people whirl around with them on their backs clocking those seated in the head.) A small day pack worn over one shoulder will often pass for a purse if a woman carries it and may pass for a guy too. If not, museums have check rooms.

Museums often don't allow backpacks because they are potentially risky to displays (as well as hapless bystanders on the metro as people whirl around with them on their backs clocking those seated in the head.) A small day pack worn over one shoulder will often pass for a purse if a woman carries it and may pass for a guy too. If not, museums have check rooms.

And, if they do allow backpacks, please wear them in front and not on your back! Museums can be packed. With the backpack in front, you can control it and not hit people and or exhibits.

You'll probably be asked to open your purse or whatever else you're carrying, just for a cursory glance by the Security agent.
Backpacks - especially medium to large ones - are a pain for the person who has to carry them, as well as inconveniencing anyone else who may be nearby.
Most museums have stopped accepting anything except small day packs, for security reasons.
A purse or small tote bag is fine, and probably all you'll need for one day of sightseeing.

The reason why museums don't accept large items of luggage any more isn't just because of security, but because some tourists were leaving their luggage there all day to avoid paying for railway station left luggage, and filling the facilities up to the point that genuine visitors couldn't leave their gear.

CM,

Regarding the Louvre, these are the rules stated on their website.....

"Self-service lockers are available free of charge beneath the Pyramid.
PLEASE NOTE: any items exceeding 55 cm x 35 cm x 20 cm are not permitted in the museum.
All items left in lockers must be collected the same day. The Musée du Louvre is not responsible for lost or stolen property."

Other Museums will probably have similar restrictions.

Any luggage left in the lockers at museums will be removed at the end of the day. There is no basis in fact for anyone leaving their belongings for days or weeks on end.