Ah, Paris—the City of Light. And at the heart of it stands the ever-iconic Eiffel Tower, a structure that captures the imagination of millions every year. Whether you’ve seen it in movies, postcards, or in real life, the Eiffel Tower never fails to impress. But how well do you really know this Parisian masterpiece? Here are five fascinating facts that will make your next visit even more special.
1. It Was Almost Taken Down
Surprisingly, the Eiffel Tower wasn’t meant to be permanent. It was built as the entrance arch for the 1889 World’s Fair, celebrating the French Revolution’s centenary. Gustave Eiffel himself had to fight to keep it from being dismantled after just 20 years. Luckily, it proved useful as a radio transmission tower, and Paris kept its iron lady.
2. It Took Just Over 2 Years to Build
Construction of the Eiffel Tower started in 1887 and was completed in 1889, a lightning-fast job by 19th-century standards. Over 18,000 iron parts and 2.5 million rivets were used to build what would become a global symbol of France.
3. It Was the Tallest Structure on Earth
For 41 years, the Eiffel Tower held the title of the tallest man-made structure in the world until the Chrysler Building in New York took the crown in 1930. Standing at 324 meters (1,063 feet), it still dominates the Paris skyline.
4. It Changes Colors Over the Years
The tower isn’t always brown! It has been painted several colors, including red and yellow-brown, but today it wears the elegant shade known as “Eiffel Tower Brown.” To protect it from rust, it’s repainted every 7 years, using around 60 tonnes of paint each time.
5. It’s the Most Visited Paid Monument in the World
With nearly 7 million visitors annually, the Eiffel Tower is not just a French treasure—it’s a global pilgrimage for travelers. Whether you’re climbing to the top or simply enjoying it from Champ de Mars, it’s a must-see for any Paris itinerary.
