The Louvre Applies Higher Entry Price to Non-European Visitors
The Louvre Museum in Paris has activated a new pricing policy starting today that establishes different rates based on the visitors' origin. This decision modifies the cost to access its permanent collections and generates a wide debate on how to finance and manage cultural heritage. 🏛️
Details of the New Pricing Structure
Under the new scheme, visitors who do not reside in the European Union, the European Economic Area, Switzerland, or Andorra must pay 24 euros. In contrast, European citizens and legal residents in those areas continue to pay the previous rate of 17 euros. The institution, managed by the French Ministry of Culture, argues that this measure is necessary to balance its accounts after its operating costs increased significantly.
Destination of the Additional Revenue:- Fund projects to renovate the museum's facilities.
- Digitize more works from its vast collection to make them accessible online.
- Maintain access to heritage without relying solely on public subsidies.
To maintain access to heritage without relying solely on public subsidies, the museum opts to modify its pricing policy.
Financial Justification and Exceptions
The Louvre's management explains that expenses to maintain the building, ensure security, and preserve the works have increased steadily. The extra revenue from this higher fee will be allocated to cover these costs. It is important to note that under 18s and EU citizens aged 18 to 25 continue to enter for free, regardless of their nationality of origin. This differentiated pricing model by residence is not unique, as several museums in other world capitals apply it. 🌍
Key Louvre Data:- Receives nearly 9 million visitors each year.
- Approximately 70% of its visitors are international.
- It is one of the most visited and iconic museums in the world.
Debate on Cultural Accessibility
The measure is not without controversy. Some tourist associations and social groups criticize it, arguing that it may be perceived as discriminatory and creates a second-class category of visitors. They defend the principle that culture should be accessible to all on equal terms. This fee change forces non