The iconic Cologne Cathedral now charges up to €12 for entry, sparking mixed reactions from locals and tourists alike.

Starting today, visitors to the Cologne Cathedral must pay an entry fee of up to €12, marking a significant change for one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks. While religious services remain free, the new fee applies to tourists and other visitors wishing to explore the cathedral’s interior. The decision has drawn mixed reactions from both locals and international tourists.

Many foreign visitors have expressed understanding, citing similar practices at other historic sites worldwide. Clara and Ulf from Sweden noted that paying to visit such landmarks is common, while Australian tourists Roslyn and Tony praised the cathedral as a ‘treasure’ worth preserving. ‘If the money is used to maintain the cathedral, we have no problem with it,’ they said.

However, some locals are less enthusiastic. Two Cologne residents were visibly upset when informed they needed tickets to enter, arguing that their church taxes should cover the costs. Sonja, a visitor from the Bergisches Land region, expressed her disappointment, saying, ‘€12 is not okay. I’ll just light a candle and pray in the free area.’

The cathedral’s provost, Guido Assmann, acknowledged the mixed reactions but emphasized the necessity of the fee for maintaining the UNESCO World Heritage Site. He shared a touching story of a visitor who insisted on donating money despite attending a free service, saying she wanted to contribute to the cathedral’s upkeep.

The €12 fee applies to standard tickets, while children under 14, severely disabled individuals with a companion, and members of the Central Cathedral Building Association can enter for free. Reduced tickets for students aged 14 and above cost €6. On special holidays and during religious services, entry remains free. Visitors can also access a designated prayer area without charge.

The new system has already had a noticeable impact. On its first day, the cathedral was quieter than usual, with fewer visitors creating a more serene atmosphere for prayer. This change has been welcomed by some, who feel it restores the spiritual essence of the space. However, others worry the fee may deter locals and reduce the cathedral’s accessibility.

The cathedral authorities plan to assess the impact of the entry fee in January, with a cap of 18,000 tickets available daily. Last year, the cathedral saw up to 40,000 visitors on its busiest day, highlighting the potential implications of this new policy.