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PhrasesAt the MuseumDevo lasciare lo zaino al guardaroba?
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Devo lasciare lo zaino al guardaroba?

Do I have to leave my backpack at the cloakroom?

Pronunciation

DWEH-voh la-SHA-reh loh DZAH-ee-noh al gwahr-dah-ROH-bah. 'Zaino' starts with the 'dz' sound.

When to use it

Many Italian museums require visitors to check large bags. Ask before entering the main gallery to avoid being turned back by a guard.

What it means

Devo is the first-person singular of dovere (must/to have to). Lasciare means to leave. Lo zaino is the backpack. Il guardaroba is the cloakroom or checkroom. This is a practical necessity at many major museums.

Variations

Il guardaroba è gratuito?

Is the cloakroom free?

Sometimes a coin deposit is required.

Posso tenere la borsa piccola?

Can I keep the small bag?

Small handbags are usually permitted.

Dove si trova il guardaroba?

Where is the cloakroom?

It is usually near the entrance.

Mini Dialogue

— Devo lasciare lo zaino al guardaroba? — Sì, è obbligatorio per gli zaini grandi. — E la mia borsa? — No, la borsa piccola può tenerla. — Grazie, torno subito.

— Do I have to leave my backpack at the cloakroom? — Yes, it is mandatory for large backpacks. — And my bag? — No, you can keep the small bag. — Thank you, I'll be right back.

Cultural Note

The Uffizi Gallery in Florence has strict bag policies and airport-style security checks. Arriving without a large bag saves considerable time. Lockers at many museums accept a one or two euro coin returned upon exit.