The Eiffel Tower transforms into a beacon of gold and sparkles each evening, captivating everyone with its Parisian charm.
When does the magic begin?
The Eiffel Tower’s lights come to life as darkness falls. The golden lighting illuminates the structure, followed by the sparkles, which twinkle for five minutes at the start of each hour. Think of it as a dazzling five-minute show every hour!
The Show Begins:
- Dusk: The sun sets, and sensors trigger the golden lighting system, taking just under 10 minutes to illuminate the Tower.
- Lights On: The beacon starts rotating at the same time as the golden lighting.
- Sparkle Time: The sparkles are lit for five minutes at the start of each hour. So, if the sun sets at 8:35 pm, the lights will come on within 10 minutes, and the first sparkles will be at 9:00 pm.
A Visual Treat:
Check out a video of the Eiffel Tower sparkling under the night sky! It’s a truly mesmerizing spectacle!
The Lights Go Out… But Not The Magic!
When does the show end?
The Eiffel Tower closes at 11:45 pm, and its lights are switched off completely. So, the final sparkles take place at 11:00 pm. But, during the summer months and French holidays, the Eiffel Tower stays open later, until 12:45 am. In this case, you’ll enjoy the sparkles each hour until 1:00 am.
Even when the golden lighting and beacon turn off at 1:00 am, the Tower continues to sparkle for a few minutes! Don’t miss this enchanting finale.
Finding the Perfect View
Where can you best admire the Eiffel Tower’s lights?
The Eiffel Tower at night is a must-see! The atmosphere is magical, especially when you’re walking up the stairs, surrounded by the Tower’s warm glow. To catch the sparkles, head to the second floor and gaze upwards at the twinkling spire.
Even if you aren’t at the Tower, you can still enjoy the show from many places in Paris. The Trocadéro esplanade and Champ de Mars are top spots to witness the Eiffel Tower’s light show. These locations offer incredible views and an opportunity to capture some fantastic photos.
Behind the Lights: A Technological Marvel
How does the Eiffel Tower’s golden lighting work?
The golden lighting system was installed in 1985 and designed by lighting engineer Pierre Bideau. It uses 336 spotlights equipped with yellow-orange high-pressure sodium bulbs.
This system was a hit globally, inspiring similar projects to illuminate other monuments at night.
The spotlights are positioned within the Eiffel Tower’s structure, shining from bottom to top. They illuminate the Tower’s intricate metalwork, providing a breathtaking sight for visitors. These lights also serve a crucial safety purpose, ensuring the Tower operates smoothly even after dark.
The Beacon and Sparkles: A Detailed Look
What’s the secret behind the beacon and the sparkles?
The beacon and the sparkles, unveiled on December 31, 1999, add another layer of brilliance to the Eiffel Tower.
The beacon, consisting of four motorized marine-style floodlights, shines two beams of light across a 50-mile range. These beams are computer-controlled, rotating 360° to form a cross shape. The lights use high-power xenon bulbs that last for approximately 1,200 hours. A sophisticated heating system ensures these lights remain warm, even in cold temperatures.
The sparkles were also designed by Pierre Bideau and are a captivating display of 20,000 low-power bulbs located on the Tower’s four sides. These bulbs turn on randomly, creating a sparkling effect that lasts for five minutes at the beginning of each hour.
The Eiffel Tower’s lighting is a testament to technology and artistry, transforming the iconic structure into a radiant symbol of Paris and its captivating charm. So, don’t miss the chance to experience this magical show!
