Eiffel Tower
One of the most famous landmarks in the world is the Eiffel Tower in Paris. It dominates the skyline and draws thousands of visitors each year. Built from 1887 to 1889, the chief architect, Gustave Eiffel designed the structure, mainly using puddle iron. The tower stands at 325m high (1,063 feet) including the antenna. This made it the tallest tower in the world until the construction of the Chrysler Building in New York City in 1930. Today, the tower is the fifth tallest construction in France but is still the tallest in Paris. The structure is designed to withstand high winds and will sway 6-7cm (2-3 inches). In tribute to other notable Frenchmen, Gustave Eiffel arranged for 72 names of scientists and engineers to be engraved on the tower.
The iconic tower was commissioned for the Paris World’s Fair to commemorate the centennial anniversary of the French Revolution. In addition to being a tourist attraction, it also serves a practical purpose as a radio transmitter since the start of the 20th century. Visitors can ascend to the Observation Deck via pulley lifts and stairs, to be rewarded with a magnificent view of the capital. There are interesting pieces of information posted on each level about the history of the Eiffel Tower. Two restaurants serve the public. Altitude 95 is located on the first floor and Jules Verne, a gastronomic restaurant, is on the second floor. A light show, using flashing lights and searchlights, has lit up the tower every evening since 2000.
The landmark has had its fair share of incidents over the years. It was struck by lightning in 1902, captured in a dramatic photograph. There have also been two fires, one in 1956 that caused some damage to the top of the tower and one in 2003 in the broadcasting equipment room. The Eiffel Tower has also been the scene of celebrations including the 2000 Millennium Celebrations on New Year’s Eve when fireworks were exploded from the structure. From 2004, the tower’s first floor has been converted into an ice rink in winter and people can skate for free.
The tower appears as a souvenir in countless stores and roadside stalls in Paris. These replica models are sometimes lit up. Vendors sell paintings of the Eiffel Tower and the image appears on key rings, tumblers, t-shirts, bottle openers and leather goods. For those wanting to visit the real thing, it’s advisable to go early in the morning to avoid long queues but try to go on a clear day, the better to appreciate that fantastic view.
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