The Paris Archdiocese has rejected French Culture Minister Rachida Dati’s proposal to introduce a €5 entrance fee for visitors to Notre Dame Cathedral. The plan aimed to raise funds for restoring other churches in France.
Catholic leaders at Notre Dame argue that charging admission violates the 1905 law separating church and state, which mandates that churches remain open to the public free of charge. They emphasized that Notre Dame should “welcome unconditionally” all visitors, regardless of financial means.
The archdiocese also cited practical difficulties in distinguishing between tourists, pilgrims, and worshippers. They stated that imposing a fee would deprive “the communion among all.”
Minister Dati suggested the fee could generate €75 million annually to “save churches all over France.”
As Notre Dame prepares to reopen in December after restoration, the uncertainty ver admission fees continues, but the archdiocese remains firm against charging visitors.
Editorial credit: Franck Legros / Shutterstock.com
