Officials at one of Germany’s most recognizable landmarks announced Thursday that they will implement tourist admission fees for the first time as they grapple with escalating maintenance expenses.
Leaders of Cologne Cathedral revealed plans to begin charging visitors during the latter half of 2024, though they have not yet disclosed the specific price for entry.
The magnificent Gothic structure, featuring distinctive twin spires, rises prominently above Cologne’s central train station along the Rhine River and serves as the city’s most recognizable feature. Work on the cathedral commenced in 1248, with final completion occurring in 1880. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization designated it as a World Heritage site in 1996.
Approximately 6 million people visit the cathedral annually.
Cathedral leadership explained that inflation combined with increasing staff expenses have created ongoing financial pressure for building maintenance. Officials project spending approximately 16 million euros ($18.6 million) on upkeep during the current year.
Financial reserves previously used to address budget shortfalls have been significantly depleted, particularly because paid visits to the cathedral’s towers and treasury were suspended for extended periods throughout the coronavirus pandemic.
Church administrators have implemented cost-cutting measures, including leaving vacant positions unfilled in the cathedral architect’s department, but acknowledge these steps cannot provide a sustainable long-term solution.
Individuals visiting for religious services and prayer will not be subject to the new entrance fee. Cathedral dean Guido Assmann noted that tourists represent approximately 99% of all visitors, according to German news agency dpa.
