The Eiffel Tower is one of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, France. Here is a detailed overview:
History
- Design and Construction: Designed by Gustave Eiffel's company, it was initially built as the entrance arch for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World's Fair) held in Paris to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution.
- Construction Period: The tower was constructed between 1887 and 1889. It took 2 years, 2 months, and 5 days to complete, involving over 18,000 individual iron pieces, 2.5 million rivets, and 7,300 tons of iron.
- Architects and Engineers: The primary architects were Maurice Koechlin and Émile Nouguier, who worked for Gustave Eiffel, with architect Stephen Sauvestre contributing to the design's aesthetics.
Technical Details
- Height: Originally 324 meters (1,063 feet) tall including the antenna at the top, but after several modifications, it now stands at 324 meters.
- Materials: Made from wrought iron, the tower is painted every seven years with 60 tons of paint to protect against rust.
- Structure: The tower has three levels for visitors, with restaurants on the first and second levels. The highest level offers panoramic views of the city.
- Weight: The tower weighs approximately 10,100 tons.
- Visitors: It attracts around 7 million visitors annually, making it the most visited monument with an entrance fee in the world.
Cultural Impact
- Symbol of Innovation: At the time of its construction, the Eiffel Tower was considered an engineering marvel, showcasing the potential of iron construction.
- Symbol of Paris: It has become a symbol of Paris, often depicted in art, literature, and films, symbolizing romance, sophistication, and French culture.
- Controversy: Initially, the tower was highly controversial; many artists and intellectuals of the day signed a petition against its construction, calling it an eyesore.
Modern Uses
- Scientific Experiments: The tower has been used for numerous scientific experiments, including the first radio transmission in France.
- Antenna: It serves as a radio and television broadcast tower for the Parisian area.
- Tourism: It is a major tourist attraction, with multiple viewing platforms, a museum at its base, and special events like the annual Bastille Day fireworks.
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