Cologne’s Catholic Cathedral, a renowned Gothic church and UNESCO World Heritage site, has announced it will begin charging tourists an entry fee of €12 to tour the building starting from July 1.

The church officials confirmed the decision during a press conference on Wednesday amid backlash after the plan was first proposed in March by architect Barbara Schock-Werner, who heads the Central Cathedral Construction Association. 

With maintenance costs for the cathedral estimated at €16 million annually—about €44,000 per day—officials stressed that a lot of money is needed to ensure the smooth running of the building.

“The cathedral costs money; the Cathedral needs a lot of money. Naturally, the admission fee of €12 is, therefore, more than welcome,” cathedral administrator Clemens van de Ven said.

Provost Guido Assmann mentioned that the church had been monitoring public feedback on the issue since the plan was unveiled, but reiterated that maintaining the cathedral is expensive. 

“Alongside the critical voices, a great deal of understanding feedback also reached us, which made clear: Many people are aware that the maintenance and upkeep of the cathedral requires reliable and sustainable financing,” Mr Assmann stated. 

He also noted that the entry fee would be waived for some groups, including children, while the church plans to continue allowing worshippers to enter the cathedral free of charge to pray and light candles.