The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris and a global icon, has a fascinating history that began with skepticism and ended with admiration.
A Monument to the French Revolution
Paris, in 1889, celebrated the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution with a grand Exposition Universelle, a world’s fair that attracted visitors from around the globe. To mark this momentous occasion, the city commissioned a monumental structure to serve as the fair’s entrance.
The Champ-de-Mars, a vast open space in the heart of Paris, was chosen as the site for this ambitious project. Over 100 artists presented their designs, but the commission ultimately went to Eiffel et Compagnie, a construction firm led by the renowned engineer Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel, famous for his expertise in bridge construction and metalwork.
While Eiffel’s name is now synonymous with the tower, it was actually his employee, Maurice Koechlin, a brilliant structural engineer, who conceived the original concept. Koechlin and Eiffel had previously collaborated on the metal framework for the Statue of Liberty, showcasing their shared vision and skill.
A Towering Achievement
Eiffel, known for his penchant for elaborate details, instructed Koechlin to refine his initial design, adding more ornate flourishes. The final design involved over 18,000 pieces of puddle iron, a sturdy type of wrought iron, held together by 2.5 million rivets.
Hundreds of skilled workers toiled for two years, meticulously assembling the iconic lattice structure. At its grand unveiling in March 1889, the Eiffel Tower stood tall at almost 1,000 feet, claiming the title of the world’s tallest structure. It would retain this distinction until the completion of New York City’s Chrysler Building in 1930.
In 1957, the tower’s height was further increased by 65 feet with the addition of an antenna, making it taller than the Chrysler Building, though not the Empire State Building, which had surpassed its neighbor in 1931. Initially, only the second-floor platform was accessible to the public. Later, all three levels, featuring restaurants on two of them, became reachable by stairs or one of the eight elevators.
A Symbol of Controversy
The Eiffel Tower, a marvel of engineering, was met with mixed reactions from the Parisians. While millions marveled at the new architectural wonder, a significant portion of the city’s population was less than impressed. Some feared its structural integrity, while others deemed it an eyesore that marred the city’s skyline.
Even renowned writer Guy de Maupassant, known for his witty observations and sharp critiques, couldn’t stomach the sight of the tower. So much so that he would dine in the restaurant at its base, the only spot from which he could avoid the towering structure’s looming silhouette.
A Lasting Legacy
Originally conceived as a temporary exhibit for the World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower was nearly dismantled in 1909. However, city officials realized its value as a radiotelegraph station, leading to its preservation.
The tower further proved its strategic importance during World War I, intercepting enemy radio communications, relaying zeppelin alerts, and assisting in troop reinforcements. Its resilience was tested again during World War II when Hitler, determined to destroy Paris’ most cherished symbol, ordered its demolition. Fortunately, the command was never carried out.
During the German occupation, French resistance fighters, in a defiant act of sabotage, cut the Eiffel Tower’s elevator cables, forcing the Nazis to climb the stairs. This daring move symbolizes the city’s spirit and resistance against oppression.
A Beacon of Innovation
Over the years, the Eiffel Tower has served as a backdrop for countless high-profile events, including ceremonial occasions and daring stunts. In 1911, Theodor Wulf, a German physicist, conducted an experiment at the tower’s summit, using an electrometer to detect higher levels of radiation compared to its base, marking the beginning of research into cosmic rays.
The Eiffel Tower’s influence extends beyond its physical presence. It has inspired over 30 replicas and similar structures in cities around the world, cementing its place as a global symbol of architectural ingenuity and artistic creativity.
An Enduring Icon
Today, the Eiffel Tower, one of the world’s most recognizable structures, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of its creators and the resilience of the city it represents. It undergoes regular maintenance, including a major facelift in 1986 and repainting every seven years, ensuring its enduring presence for generations to come.
The Eiffel Tower continues to welcome millions of visitors each year, with an estimated 7 million people flocking to its platforms to experience panoramic views of the “City of Lights.” A dedicated team of 500 employees works tirelessly behind the scenes, maintaining the tower’s operations, ensuring its safety, and directing the eager crowds.
From its controversial beginnings to its status as a global icon, the Eiffel Tower stands as a symbol of Parisian ingenuity, resilience, and the enduring power of human creativity.
