The Eiffel Tower, one of the world’s most iconic monuments, draws millions of visitors to Paris each year. Beyond its famous silhouette lies a history of engineering marvels, surprising facts, and cultural significance. Here’s a deep dive into the fun facts that reveal the magic of this Parisian landmark.
Eiffel Tower Height – How Tall Is the Eiffel Tower?
The Eiffel Tower stands at an impressive height of 300 meters (984 feet) from the ground to its main roof. Adding the television antenna on top, the total height reaches 330 meters (1,083 feet). This height makes the Eiffel Tower not only the tallest structure in Paris but also a marvel of engineering that has captivated visitors since its completion in 1889.
Resting on a 5-meter (17-foot) high base, the tower’s iron framework was once the tallest man-made structure in the world. Over time, the tower’s height can vary due to thermal expansion, as the iron expands in summer and contracts in winter, causing small seasonal changes in height by a few inches. Today, it remains a globally recognized symbol of architectural innovation and Parisian culture.
A Tower That Changes Height
The Eiffel Tower’s height changes with the seasons due to temperature variations. In summer, the iron expands in the heat, making the tower up to 6 inches taller, while in winter, it shrinks back as the iron contracts. This thermal expansion allows the Eiffel Tower to naturally adjust its height by a few inches throughout the year, showcasing its remarkable design flexibility.
Nearly Demolished
Originally intended as a temporary structure for the 1889 World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower was scheduled for demolition in 1909. However, Gustave Eiffel urged the installation of a radio antenna at its top, making it crucial for communication. This addition secured the tower’s place in Paris and allowed it to evolve from a fair exhibit to a modern-day beacon of communication and innovation.
Once Painted Yellow
Initially, the Eiffel Tower received a yellowish-brown paint coat to protect the iron. Over the years, it has sported several hues, finally settling on the three-tone “Eiffel Tower Brown” in 1968, with a gradient effect from dark brown at the top to lighter shades at the base. This color scheme not only enhances its beauty but also prevents rusting, crucial for the tower’s longevity.
Painted by Hand
Painting the Eiffel Tower is no small task! The structure must be repainted by hand every seven years to protect it from rust, requiring about 60 tons of paint. A team of 50 painters spends several months on this job, meticulously applying paint to every part of the tower. This careful maintenance keeps it looking vibrant and durable.
Scientists Honored at Its Base
Gustave Eiffel paid tribute to French scientists by engraving the names of 72 notable engineers, mathematicians, and scientists on the tower’s base. Once covered by paint, these names were restored in 1986 to their original golden finish. The engravings celebrate contributors to science and technology, reflecting the tower’s status as a monument to innovation.
Climbing 1,665 Steps to the Top
Visitors can climb all 1,665 steps or opt for the elevator. Along the way, they’ll find attractions at each level. The first platform, 189 feet (57.6 meters) high, offers restaurants, a gift shop, and a thrilling glass floor. The second platform, at 379 feet (115 meters), provides stunning views of landmarks like the Louvre. At the summit, visitors can celebrate their climb with a toast at the champagne bar and enjoy panoramic views of Paris.
Night Photography Restrictions
Each evening, the Eiffel Tower dazzles viewers with a light show using 20,000 sparkling bulbs. However, due to copyright laws, the light display counts as an artwork, restricting commercial use of nighttime photos without permission from French authorities. Personal photos are welcome, but commercial use requires special approval.
Gustave Eiffel’s Hidden Apartment
Gustave Eiffel designed a small apartment for himself at the summit, where he hosted dignitaries and conducted experiments. Located 1,000 feet above ground, this private suite offered Eiffel a luxurious space with sweeping views of Paris. Today, it’s open for visitors, offering a glimpse into his life and the tower’s history.
Weighs a Colossal 10,100 Tons
The Eiffel Tower’s iron frame weighs 7,300 tons, with a total structure weight of 10,100 tons. Constructing this enormous tower required a team of 300 workers, 18,000 iron parts, and 2.5 million rivets. Each massive pillar anchors the tower securely to a base area covering 410 square feet, balancing its significant weight with ease.
Built in Just Over Two Years
Construction began in January 1887 and was completed by March 1889, taking just over two years. For the late 19th century, this speed was impressive and showcased French engineering’s sophistication. Gustave Eiffel personally supervised the work, leading over 300 workers who combined cutting-edge techniques with precise organization.
World’s Most-Visited Paid Monument
The Eiffel Tower welcomes nearly 7 million visitors annually, making it the world’s most-visited paid monument. Since its debut in 1889, the tower has attracted close to 300 million people, cementing its place as a timeless and beloved landmark.
Artists’ Opposition
Over 300 Parisian artists famously opposed the tower’s construction, calling it a “monstrous” blemish on the city’s skyline. Some even compared it to a “gigantic factory chimney” unworthy of Paris. Yet, public opinion shifted quickly after completion, and the tower won the admiration of locals and tourists alike.
Once a Scientific Laboratory
Gustave Eiffel equipped the tower with a laboratory, where he and other scientists performed groundbreaking studies in physics, meteorology, and aerodynamics. Later, he installed a wind tunnel at the base, where early pioneers like the Wright Brothers tested aerodynamics, adding to the tower’s scientific legacy.
Sways in Strong Winds
Engineers designed the Eiffel Tower to withstand gusty winds and sways slightly during storms. It can bend up to 3 inches at the top in strong winds or high temperatures. This swaying ability is an impressive feature that ensures the structure’s flexibility and durability.
Three Designers Shaped Its Creation
Although Gustave Eiffel’s name is most associated with the tower, two engineers, Maurice Koechlin and Émile Nouguier, created the original design. Architect Stephen Sauvestre added final touches, like decorative arches, which softened its industrial look and gave it its iconic style.
Strategic Role in World War I
During World War I, the Eiffel Tower’s radio transmitter played a crucial role in intercepting German communications. In 1914, French troops used it to jam German signals during the First Battle of the Marne, which helped the Allies secure a key victory and demonstrated the tower’s strategic importance.
Saved from Destruction in World War II
In 1944, Adolf Hitler ordered the destruction of Paris if it could not be held, with the Eiffel Tower among his targets. Fortunately, General Dietrich von Choltitz, who received the order, chose to ignore it, sparing the tower and preserving Paris’s architectural heritage.
Public Favorite from Day One
Despite initial opposition, the Eiffel Tower became a massive success at the 1889 World’s Fair, drawing over 2 million visitors. The fair’s revenue surpassed $1.4 million, helping Paris recoup its investment and establishing the tower as a beloved symbol of the city.
Holds Up to 5,000 People
The Eiffel Tower’s first platform can hold 3,000 visitors, the second 1,600, and the summit around 400. This capacity allows thousands to enjoy the views and attractions simultaneously, without overcrowding, thanks to the tower’s thoughtful design.
Panoramic Views from the Top
On clear days, visitors at the top can see up to 43 miles (70 kilometers) in every direction. From this height, the Paris skyline, Charles de Gaulle Airport, and the French countryside unfold in a spectacular panorama, making the journey to the summit truly rewarding.