The Eiffel Tower celebrates its 135th anniversary as the world's most visited paid monument

01-04-24

Known as the "symbol of France in the world," it is much more than just a monument. It is an icon of engineering and architecture, a key piece of French history and a meeting point for people from all over the world. Celebrating its 135th anniversary is a testament to its enduring appeal and significance.

Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel and his collaborators for the 1889 World's Fair, the Eiffel Tower was initially criticized by some of Paris' greatest artists for its bold design. However, it quickly became a world-renowned masterpiece and one of the most visited monuments in the world. The tower was not only an impressive technical achievement for its time, but also symbolized the spirit of the industrial age and technological progress.

The construction of the Eiffel Tower was an enormous engineering challenge. It required the precision and coordination of hundreds of workers, and some 7,300 tons of wrought iron were used, a material that contributed to its flexibility and strength. The tower was assembled using more than 2 million rivets, a feat that highlighted the advanced construction techniques of the time.

The inclusion of the antenna in 2022, raising its height to 330 meters, is a reflection of how the Eiffel Tower has evolved over time. Originally designed as a temporary structure, its permanence has required multiple renovations and maintenance to ensure its safety and stability. These interventions have allowed the tower to adapt to changing times, hosting radio and television transmissions, and more recently, improving its energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.