Eiffel Tower

The Iron Lady of Paris

The Eiffel Tower stands as the most iconic symbol of Paris and France. Built by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair, this magnificent iron lattice tower rises 330 meters (1,083 feet) into the Parisian sky.

Architecture & Design

The tower's unique iron lattice design was revolutionary for its time. Gustave Eiffel's engineering masterpiece consists of:

• 18,038 individual iron pieces
• 2.5 million rivets holding it together
• Three observation levels at 57m, 115m, and 276m
• Intricate ironwork that creates beautiful shadows and patterns

Visiting Experience

The tower offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Paris from its three levels:

1. First Level (57m): Glass floor, exhibitions, and restaurants
2. Second Level (115m): The most popular viewing platform
3. Summit (276m): Champagne bar and Gustave Eiffel's private apartment

The tower is particularly magical at sunset and night, when it sparkles with 20,000 golden lights every hour on the hour.

A Monument Born from Controversy

The 1889 World's Fair

The Eiffel Tower was constructed as the entrance arch to the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World's Fair) held in Paris to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution.

Initial Opposition

Many Parisians initially hated the tower, calling it an eyesore. A group of 300 artists, writers, and intellectuals signed a petition against its construction, including famous names like:

• Guy de Maupassant (who later dined at the tower daily because it was the only place in Paris where he couldn't see it)
• Charles Garnier (architect of the Paris Opera)
• Alexandre Dumas (author of The Three Musketeers)

From Temporary to Eternal

Originally planned to be dismantled after 20 years, the tower was saved because it proved valuable as a radio transmission antenna. During World War I, it intercepted enemy radio communications, helping to win the Battle of the Marne.

Cultural Impact

Today, the Eiffel Tower appears in countless films, literature, and art, making it one of the most recognizable structures in human history. It has inspired over 30 replicas worldwide and remains a symbol of French engineering excellence and romantic Paris.