Cologne Cathedral will charge tourists an entry fee of € 12 from July 1 as church officials seek new funding for maintenance, security and daily operations.
The Gothic landmark in Germany costs about €16 million a year to maintain, according to German media.
Cathedral administrator Clemens van de Ven said the fee would help cover the site’s high running costs. “The Cathedral costs money; the Cathedral needs a lot of money,” he said.
Provost Guido Assmann said the administration considered public feedback before setting the final price. He said many people understood that the cathedral needs reliable long-term funding.
Children and some other visitors will receive exemptions. Officials also plan discounts or free access on selected dates, including January 6, May 1 and October 3.
Worshippers will continue to enter free of charge. Visitors who want to pray may use the northern entrance and access a designated prayer area.
Tourists who want to explore the full building will need tickets at the main western entrance.
Cologne Cathedral stands 157 metres tall and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Several major European religious sites already charge tourists, including Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia, Vienna’s St. Stephen’s Cathedral and London’s Westminster Abbey.
