That’s the subject of my latest column for Bloomberg, as the Cathedral reopens in December. The government wants to charge tourists five euros, but the Church is against it. Here is part of my provided solution:
First, charge a fee — but make it E10 rather than €5. If seeing Notre Dame only costs E7 or E8 for someone, I don’t mind including them, for the benefit of those who really want to see the place. The crowds have to go down – and if they don’t, just raise the entrance fee. St. Paul’s in London, however, charges £25 for adults, while Saint-Denis in Paris costs €11. Anyone who can afford to visit Paris can afford to pay more than 5 euros to see Notre Dame.
Second, assign a priest, monk or other religious counselor in the congregation, to minister to any religious visitor who may need help in matters of the soul. If necessary, that person can accompany the guest seeking God to a nearby church where the visit is free. Entry fees will help fund this service, which can be symbolic even if it is underutilized.
Third, set aside more time for Notre Dame to become a more peaceful and religious place. Maybe free entry one day a week – but only for Paris residents. Since most tourists stay in Paris for more than a day, the serious tourist should still be able to see the church.
And note this:
Weekly sales have a big downfall – but entry fees can be a half-bake of sales, not your apogee.
And this:
To put it another way: Overcrowding is a payment of some kind, even if its value is always zero.
Let’s hope they do.
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