The City of Lights shines even brighter after dark, with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower dazzling visitors with its shimmering beauty. But beyond its charm, the Iron Lady’s nighttime brilliance is a story of innovation and evolution.
From Gaslights to Golden Sparkles
The Eiffel Tower has been a beacon since its debut in 1889, when gas lamps illuminated the grand structure. Imagine over 10,000 gas burners illuminating the Iron Lady on its opening night! Just a decade later, electricity replaced gas, and over 5,000 light bulbs were cleverly embedded into the tower’s structure. This not only enhanced night-time access but also showcased the monument’s intricate design. From there, the lighting scheme evolved through various events, adding special touches to the timeless tower.
In 1985, the Eiffel Tower received a major makeover, including a radiant golden glow. And, as the millennium approached, a new lighthouse and dazzling sparkles were added to the scene. This initially temporary spectacle proved so captivating, it became a permanent fixture in Paris.
Timing the Tower’s Twinkle
The golden light of the Eiffel Tower turns on as dusk settles, thanks to light sensors. Every hour, the tower sparkles for 5 minutes. So, if the sun sets at 8:20 p.m., the tower will shimmer in golden hues 10 minutes later, with its first twinkling display at 9 p.m. The lighthouse, situated at the tower’s peak, starts to rotate at the same time as the lights.
While the Eiffel Tower remains open late during the summer months, the lights and the lighthouse are switched off at 1 a.m., leaving just the shimmering sparkle for 5 minutes.
A Sustainable Sparkle
The Eiffel Tower’s energy consumption has been a significant concern for years. Back in 2004, the power of the 336 projectors was reduced by 40%, which accounted for 4% of the tower’s total energy use.
The sparkling display’s duration was also shortened from 10 minutes to 5 minutes in 2008, to minimize the tower’s environmental footprint. Even with its 20,000 xenon bulbs, the sparkle’s energy consumption remains minimal, representing only 0.4% of the tower’s energy expenses. These figures have further decreased with the implementation of the city’s energy sobriety plan, ending the nighttime sparkle at 11 p.m.
Since 2016, the tower’s lighting efficiency has continued to improve, achieving an average annual energy reduction of 9%.
A Beacon for Paris and Beyond
The Eiffel Tower’s iconic lighthouse has been a guiding light since its installation in 1889. Initially used to illuminate Paris’s major landmarks, such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Opéra Garnier, and the Louvre Museum, it later played a role in aerial navigation. Today, the lighthouse continues to be a symbol of Paris, recognizable worldwide.
The current lighthouse, inaugurated at the dawn of the new millennium, consists of two powerful electrical harnesses with a range of 80 kilometers.
A Nighttime Adventure
The Eiffel Tower’s nighttime charm offers a unique perspective on Paris. With its golden glow, it’s a magical experience that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways.
Ascend the stairs for a unique perspective of the illuminated structure. Indulge in a glass of champagne at the champagne bar on the top floor as the sun sets, or enjoy a romantic dinner at either the Madame Brasserie on the first floor or the Michelin-starred restaurant Jules Verne on the second floor.
To fully immerse yourself in the magic of the twinkling display, arrive early, after nightfall, and head to the second floor. You’ll be surrounded by golden lights, and looking up, you’ll see the tower’s glittering spire.
For breathtaking views of Paris at night, or to witness the lighthouse in action, make your way to the top of the tower.
Capturing the Magic
Capture the beauty of the Eiffel Tower’s nighttime spectacle by snapping photos or filming videos. Share your memories with the world on social media. However, be mindful of the legalities. The tower’s golden lighting and sparkles are protected by copyright, so seeking permission is required for professional use.
A Night to Remember
A day or night visit to the Eiffel Tower promises a unique experience, but at night, the tower’s golden glow transforms the visit into a magical and unforgettable memory.
