The Olympic Games are a time for celebration and spectacle, and the Olympic cauldron is a symbol of this spirit. But did you know that the flaming ring you see rising high above the 2024 Paris Olympics isn’t actually fire?
This year, the Olympic cauldron is a masterpiece of illusion. It ascends gracefully 200 feet into the air, seemingly ignited by a fiery ring. But this vibrant glow is not the result of burning fuel; it’s a brilliant mix of mist and light, meticulously crafted to give the impression of a real flame.
A Modern Take on Tradition
The iconic Olympic cauldron has always been a symbol of the Games. In the past, it was a ground-based structure with real flames burning within it. However, designer Mathieu Lehanneur, the mastermind behind the 2024 cauldron, envisioned something more ambitious and environmentally conscious.
Lehanneur wanted to create a cauldron that was open, visible, and welcoming. He was inspired by the history of hot air balloons in Paris. The first human-carrying balloon took flight in Paris in 1783, and a week later, the first hydrogen-powered balloon soared from the Jardin des Tuileries, the same location where the Olympic cauldron stands today.
Lehanneur’s design not only pays homage to this iconic Parisian history but also addresses a key concern: safety. A real flame 200 feet in the air would pose significant risks, requiring complex infrastructure and presenting a potential fire hazard.
A Sustainable Symbol
Beyond safety, the flameless design is also a testament to the Paris Olympics’ commitment to sustainability. One of the Games’ primary goals is to reduce its carbon footprint by half compared to previous events. A real flame would require a substantial amount of gas, leading to significant CO2 emissions.
“We wanted to avoid this combustion to prevent pollution and global warming,” explained Lehanneur. The innovative mist-and-light illusion effectively eliminates the need for fuel and minimizes environmental impact, making it a truly sustainable choice.
A Beloved Landmark
The Olympic cauldron has become a magnet for tourists in Paris. Every evening, thousands of spectators gather to witness the spectacular ascent, and tickets are completely sold out for the entire duration of the Games.
“It’s quite wonderful,” shared Chris Sirac, a visitor from southern France. “The moment it rises into the sky with the Eiffel Tower flashing, it’s really emotional.”
Julie Jung, a Parisian resident, echoed these sentiments, saying, “Really nice to see and really beautiful. We are proud of being French.”
Lehanneur was pleasantly surprised by the overwhelmingly positive response. “It’s quite rare that all the feedback I received was so positive,” he remarked. “People said we are super proud of it and we want to keep it.”
A Legacy for Paris?
The city of Paris seems to share this sentiment. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has expressed her desire to permanently integrate the Olympic cauldron into the city’s landscape. This would ensure that the spectacular spectacle continues to inspire and delight for years to come, a testament to the spirit of the Games and the city’s commitment to sustainability.
