Cologne Cathedral Plans Admission Fee

Cologne Cathedral will start charging an admission fee. This is because of rising costs. Some people disagree with this plan.
The cathedral receives six million visitors each year. It has been free to enter for a very long time – over 700 years. Officials are trying to manage costs like maintenance and security. There have been problems with visitors behaving disrespectfully, such as climbing on the altar. The goal is to stop this behavior and protect the cathedral.
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Highlights
Cathedral to Charge Fees
Cologne Cathedral will start charging an admission fee.
Architect Opposes Fees
Barbara Schock-Werner believes fees will change the cathedral's character.
Long-Standing Free Access
The cathedral has been free to enter for over 700 years.
Financial Concerns Raised
The entrance fee could lead to the church losing money.
Disrespectful Behavior Cited
Officials are considering fees due to visitors climbing on the altar.