Eiffel Tower: Iconic Landmark, Symbol of Paris | Visit the Eiffel Tower 2024

The Eiffel Tower, an iconic symbol of France, is located in Paris and is one of the most recognizable structures in the world. Constructed for the 1889 World’s Fair, this iconic tower was initially meant to be temporary but has become an enduring monument loved by millions worldwide.

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History of the Eiffel Tower

In 1889, Paris was gearing up for the grand International Exposition to celebrate a century since the French Revolution. The city wanted a show-stopping centerpiece, so they held a competition for the best design. Over 100 proposals poured in, but the committee chose a daring plan by a bridge engineer named Gustave Eiffel. Eiffel’s vision was bold and ambitious – a towering iron structure, unlike anything the world had ever seen. Many were skeptical, calling it an eyesore, but Eiffel’s determination prevailed. And boy, were those critics proven wrong!

Construction of the Eiffel Tower began on January 28, 1887, and was completed on March 31, 1889. It took a little over two years to build this iconic structure, which was remarkably fast for the time.

Materials Used

The Eiffel Tower is made up of 18,038 wrought iron pieces, a type of iron that is strong and malleable. These pieces were carefully designed and made elsewhere, then brought to the site and assembled using 2.5 million rivets. This allowed for the intricate latticework design that characterizes the tower. The foundation is made of concrete, while the base and first floor are supported by massive masonry piers.

Construction Challenges

The construction of the Eiffel Tower faced numerous challenges:

Skepticism and Criticism: Many Parisians initially disliked the design of the tower, considering it an eyesore. Prominent artists and intellectuals even signed a petition protesting its construction.
Engineering Complexity: The tower’s unique design and height presented significant engineering challenges. The use of wrought iron and rivets was innovative for the time, and the complex latticework required meticulous planning and execution.
Safety Concerns: Working at such heights posed significant safety risks for the construction workers. However, Gustave Eiffel prioritized safety measures and there were remarkably few accidents during the construction process.
Weather Conditions: The unpredictable Parisian weather, including strong winds and rain, sometimes hampered construction progress.

Eiffel Tower Specifications

Height: 330 meters (1,083 feet) including the antenna.
Weight: The Eiffel Tower weighs approximately 10,100 tons, including the metal structure, elevators, shops, and antennae. The original wrought iron structure itself weighs 7,300 tons.
Paint: Initially painted in “Venetian red,” the Eiffel Tower has undergone numerous repaints over the years. The current color is a specially formulated shade of bronze known as “Eiffel Tower Brown.”
Elevators: The Eiffel Tower has seven elevators in total, including five that take visitors to the different levels and two that are used for staff.
Levels: Three levels open to the public: the first floor 57 meters (187 feet), the second floor 115 meters (377 feet), and the top floor 276 meters (906 feet).

The Eiffel Tower’s Sparkling Light Show: A Parisian Nighttime Delight

As dusk settles over Paris, the Eiffel Tower transforms into a beacon of shimmering light. Every evening, thousands of sparkling LED lights illuminate the iconic structure, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that has captured the hearts of locals and tourists alike.

This enchanting light show has been a Parisian tradition since 1985 when the lights were first installed. Over the years, the display has been updated with energy-efficient LEDs, ensuring a sustainable and breathtaking show for generations to come.

Every hour on the hour, starting at nightfall, the Eiffel Tower lights up with a dazzling five-minute display of twinkling lights. This show runs until 1 AM and until 2 AM in the summer. The sparkling lights create a romantic and festive atmosphere, casting a warm glow over the city and reflecting in the Seine River below.

Opening and Closing

The Eiffel Tower’s opening hours vary slightly depending on the season:

Mid-June to early September: 9:00 AM to 12:30 AM
During the rest of the year (outside the peak summer season), the Eiffel Tower is open from 9:30 AM to 11:45 PM

Note: During special events or holidays, the opening hours may be extended.

Suggestion: We recommend checking the official Eiffel Tower website for the latest information on opening hours before your visit.

Things to Know Before You Visit

Tickets: It’s recommended to book tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. There are different ticket options depending on whether you want to take the stairs or the elevator and which levels you want to visit.
Security: Expect security checks before entering the tower.
Accessibility: The tower is partially accessible for visitors with disabilities. There are elevators available for those who cannot climb the stairs.
Dining: There are several restaurants and bars within the Eiffel Tower, offering a variety of dining experiences with spectacular views.

Some Unknown Facts

The Eiffel Tower was originally meant to be temporary and was almost dismantled after the World’s Fair.
During World War II, Hitler ordered the destruction of the Eiffel Tower, but the order was never carried out.
It shrinks slightly during the winter due to the contraction of the metal.
Gustave Eiffel had a secret apartment at the top of the tower.
The Eiffel Tower held the title of the tallest man-made structure in the world until 1930 when the Chrysler Building in New York surpassed it.
During World War 2, the tower’s lift cables were cut, and it remained closed to the public.

Eiffel Tower Tickets: Prices, Booking, and Payment Options

Ticket Fare: Prices vary depending on the level accessed and the age of the visitor. Tickets for adults start around 14 € for access to the second floor via stairs and go up to 35 € for elevator access to the top.

Booking: You can secure your Eiffel Tower tickets in two ways:

Online: The official Eiffel Tower website is the easiest way to book in advance. This is highly recommended to avoid waiting in long lines.
On-site: Ticket offices are available at the tower, but be prepared for potential queues, especially during peak seasons.

Pro Tip: Always check the website before you go, as online tickets can sometimes sell out, or offline booking may be the only choice at certain times.

Payment methods: The website offers various payment methods, including credit/debit cards and voucher/gift cards. Notably, the recent integration of India’s UPI system has made it even simpler for Indian travelers to purchase tickets online with ease.

**Source –** The official website of the Eiffel tower

Remember: Ticket prices are subject to change, so always double-check the official website for the latest information before your visit.

The Official Eiffel Tower website: https://www.toureiffel.paris/en

Location Map for Eiffel Tower

Places to Visit Near the Eiffel Tower

After you’ve marveled at the Eiffel Tower’s grandeur, there’s plenty more to explore in its vibrant neighborhood! Here are a few gems you won’t want to miss:

Champs de Mars: Picture a sprawling green oasis right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower—that’s Champs de Mars! It’s the perfect spot to kick back with a picnic, soak up the sun, and enjoy postcard-worthy views of the iconic structure.
Trocadéro Gardens: Get your cameras ready! Trocadéro Gardens offers some of the most breathtaking panoramas of the Eiffel Tower. Capture stunning photos, especially at sunset when the tower lights up in a magical display.
Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac: Embark on a cultural journey at this fascinating museum, home to Indigenous art and artifacts from around the world. It’s a captivating exploration of human creativity and diversity.
Seine River Cruises: Hop aboard a boat and glide along the Seine River, taking in Paris’s iconic landmarks from a unique perspective. It’s a romantic and relaxing way to experience the city’s charm.
Rue Cler: Foodies, rejoice! This charming market street is a haven for culinary delights. Stroll through its lively stalls, sample delicious French cheeses and pastries, and soak up the authentic Parisian atmosphere.

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Featured Video Credits – Chait Goli, TungArt7