Charging to Preserve: France's Bold Proposal for Notre-Dame's Future

France's culture minister, Rachida Dati, suggests instituting a small fee for visitors of Notre-Dame cathedral to fund maintenance of the nation's iconic religious sites. This proposal aims to generate 75 million euros annually, addressing preservation challenges, and aligning entrance fees with global visitors.

France's minister of culture, Rachida Dati, has proposed the introduction of a small entrance fee for visitors to the Notre-Dame cathedral. This initiative is designed to support the maintenance of France's historical religious sites.

The proposal emerges as Notre-Dame continues its lengthy reconstruction following a devastating fire. Dati argues this fee could generate up to 75 million euros annually, helping to address the country's preservation challenges.

Additionally, Dati suggests that tourists from outside the European Union should face higher entrance fees to non-religious landmarks. This move aims to secure funding for France's degraded historic buildings and its threatened national heritage.

(With inputs from agencies.)