The Eiffel Tower is the best known symbol of France, and one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
[Eiffel Tower – Paris]
Also known as The Iron Lady, La dame de fer and La Tour Eiffel, was built between 1887 and 1889 to serve as an entrance arch at a World’s Fair, the Exposition Universelle, to mark the centennial fete of the French Revolution. The Eiffel tower stands at 1,063 ft tall and was named after its engineer and designer, Gustave Eiffel. It was built with the assistance of Maurice Koechlin and Émile Nouguier, while Stephen Sauvetre served as its architect. About 300 hundred workers pieced together 18,038 bits of puddle iron, and 2,500,000 rivets. 10,000 gas lamps lit the tower at night. It exceeded the Washington Monument at its completion, and the tower held the title of the “Tallest Man-Made Structure in the World” for 41 years, until New York’s Chrysler Building was built in 1930.
Today, a mention of Paris evokes thoughts of the Eiffel Tower. It is the country’s most renowned symbol, visited by thousands of people from around the world. However, back in the days when the tower was newly built it was faced with public criticism. Several petitioners voiced out their opinions calling it an “odious column” or an eyesore. Renowned individuals such as Charles Gounod, Jean-Louis-Ernest Meissonier, Charles Garnier, William-Adolpe Bouguereau, Jean-Léon Gérôme, and Alexander Dumas, shared the churlish opinions.
The tower was supposed to be stripped down in 1909 but after discerning the tower’s value for communication at the First Battle of the Marne, the French retracted their plan.
What Makes the Eiffel Tower Special?
Famous French painters like Henri Rousseau hand painted the tower and Robert Delaunay made “The Eiffel Tower Series” which consists of the most compelling works in his life. At the same time, it has appeared in countless movies like Paris qui dort by Rene Clair, The Man on the Eiffel Tower, Armageddon, The Day After Tomorrow and G.I. Joe. Notable people who have left an imprint in our world history made a social call with the Iron Lady. In September 10, 1889, Thomas Edison visited the tower and signed the guestbook. In 1987, A.J. Hackett, the one who popularized bungee jumping and extreme sports, made one of his first jumps from the top of the tower, and in 1999 New Year’s Eve, the structure hosted Paris’ Millennium Celebration.
Restaurant in the Eiffel Tower
A visit to the Eiffel Tower is a memorable, romantic, and educational experience. From atop, you can see most of Paris, and it feels like you own the city. The tower’s restaurants, Le 58 Tour Eiffel and Le Jules Vernes, will awaken your taste buds along with euphoric views of Paris as you enjoy the sophisticated gourmet dishes and wine.
Tickets to the Eiffel Tower
As the tower is so popular, the queues can be intimidating. You can save time and plan your visit by buying tickets online.
Getting to Paris
Visit Paris with a Eurail Pass.
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