The Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany's most visited landmarks, will charge a 12 euro fee for tourists starting in July. The measure aims to cover the 44,000 euros daily cost of its maintenance. Worshippers attending to pray can enter for free, while visitors will receive discounts on holidays.
The cost of maintaining a Gothic icon in the digital age 💸
The payment system will rely on access control technology. The use of turnstiles with QR code readers is planned to streamline entry for registered worshippers. Payment will be managed through digital platforms and card terminals at the ticket offices. This approach aims to minimize fraud and optimize revenue, allocating funds to the restoration of stained glass windows and the stone structure, affected by pollution.
Free faith, paid selfies: the new divine law 😇
So now you know: if you want to see the tallest spires in the world, take out your wallet. But if you arrive looking repentant and say a Lord's Prayer, entry is on the house. Of course, don't try to sneak in with a kneeling selfie because the QR system doesn't forgive. In the end, the German cathedral reminds us that the divine is free, but the touristy stuff comes at a market price.