Eiffel Tower One of the most iconic landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower stands as a testament to the romantic spirit of France. Perched high above the city of Paris, this remarkable structure attracts millions of tourists every year.
Historical Overview of Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower, or La Tour Eiffel as it’s known in French, was built as the entrance arch to the 1889 Exposition Universelle, a World’s Fair marking the centennial celebration of the French Revolution. Designed by Gustave Eiffel’s company, the iron structure was initially criticized by some of France’s leading artists and intellectuals. However, over the years, it has become a global cultural icon and an embodiment of human architectural achievement. A less known fact is that Adolf Hitler was pictured in front of the Eiffel Tower during the German occupation of France during World War II.
Facts and Figures about the Eiffel Tower
Standing at an impressive height of 324 meters (1,063 feet), the Eiffel Tower was the tallest man-made structure in the world until the completion of the Chrysler Building in New York in 1930. It’s made of iron and weighs approximately 7,300 tons.
One of the frequently asked questions is: “Can you see the Eiffel Tower from London?” While it’s a fascinating thought, the simple answer is no. The distance between the two cities is approximately 344 kilometers, far beyond human sight capability, not to mention the curvature of the Earth.
In a more realistic comparison, let’s consider the Tokyo Tower vs. Eiffel Tower. Tokyo Tower, inspired by the Eiffel Tower design, stands at 333 meters, making it taller than its Parisian counterpart.
As for the journey to the top, there are indeed a substantial number of steps in the Eiffel Tower. Precisely, there are 1,665 steps to the top, but the stairs are only open to the public up to the second floor. Elevators take visitors to the top level.
Key Facts about the Eiffel Tower
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Year of Completion | 1889 |
| Architect | Gustave Eiffel |
| Original Purpose | Entrance Arch for the 1889 Exposition Universelle |
| Height | 324 meters (1,063 feet) |
| Weight | Approx. 7,300 tons |
| Number of Steps to the Top | 1,665 (stairs only up to the 2nd floor for the public) |
| Annual Visitors | Approx. 7 million |
| Distance from Charles De Gaulle Airport | Approx. 45 minutes by taxi |
| Distance from the Louvre | 3 km |
Visiting the Eiffel Tower
As Travelling from Charles De Gaulle Airport, the closest airport is the Eiffel Tower, takes approximately 45 minutes by taxi. If you’re planning a day of sightseeing, the distance from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre is about 3km, a lovely 40-minute walk along the River Seine. As for Disneyland Paris, it’s located 32km east of Paris, approximately a 1 hour drive from the Eiffel Tower.
Visiting the Eiffel Tower provides a unique experience, with the breathtaking view from the top being the highlight in this Eiffel Tower. It offers a panoramic view of Paris that is truly unmatched. The Eiffel Tower also houses the “Champagne Bar,” where you can enjoy a glass of bubbly at the city’s highest altitude.
Children and adults alike will find the Eiffel Tower carousel, located at the foot of the monument, a delightful diversion. And for those wondering, yes, the Eiffel Tower apartment did exist! Gustave Eiffel had a small apartment built for himself at the top of the tower.
How to reach from usa?
Reaching the Eiffel Tower from the USA involves air travel and then further local transportation once you arrive in Paris. Here are the general steps:
- Book a Flight: Numerous airlines offer direct flights from various cities in the USA to Charles De Gaulle Airport (CDG), which is the largest international airport in France and the closest to Paris. The flight duration varies depending on your location in the USA but typically ranges from 7 to 11 hours.
- Travel to Paris City Center: After arriving at Charles De Gaulle Airport, you can travel to Paris city center by RER B (Blue) train, Roissybus, taxis, or private shuttle services. The RER B train connects the airport to several major metro stations in Paris.
- Reach Eiffel Tower: Once you are in Paris, the Eiffel Tower can be accessed through various means:
- Metro: The closest Metro station to the Eiffel Tower is Bir-Hakeim (Line 6). Another nearby station is École Militaire (Line 8).
- RER: Line C has a stop close to the Eiffel Tower at the Champ de Mars station.
- Bus: There are several bus lines (42, 69, 72, 82, 87) that stop near the Eiffel Tower.
- Batobus: This is a boat service on the Seine River, which has a stop at the Eiffel Tower.
- On Foot: If you are staying somewhere in the city center, you can also reach the Eiffel Tower by walking, which is a great way to see the city.
The Eiffel Tower in Popular Culture
The Eiffel Tower’s popularity extends beyond tourism. It’s frequently featured in films, music, literature, and even video games like Minecraft. Its distinctive silhouette is used in various forms of media, from Eiffel Tower emojis to clipart and memes. Interestingly, pop culture references from shows like ‘Jersey Shore’ have sparked curiosity about the Eiffel Tower’s meaning in different contexts.
Why is the Eiffel Tower famous for?
For more than a century, the Eiffel Tower has stood as an iconic representation of Paris and, on a broader scale, France itself. Since its construction for the 1889 World’s Fair, its imposing structure and audacious design have captivated the world, marking a pivotal moment in architectural history.
Here are 15 key points that underpin the significance and allure of the Eiffel Tower:
- Historical Beacon: Erected for the 1889 World’s Fair held in Paris, the Eiffel Tower stood as a demonstration of France’s industrial prowess. Its birth brought a new era of architectural design and engineering into the world’s view.
- Engineering Marvel: With its intricate iron lattice work, the Eiffel Tower was a revolutionary feat of engineering for its time. It introduced new concepts in wind resistance and demonstrated the strength and flexibility of iron.
- Tallest Structure: Upon its completion, the Eiffel Tower took the title of the tallest man-made structure in the world. It held this title for 41 years, until the completion of the Chrysler Building in New York City in 1930.
- Global Icon: The Eiffel Tower is not only a symbol of Paris, but of France itself. It is one of the most recognized structures in the world and a must-visit for any traveler.
- Tourist Attraction: As one of the most visited paid monuments globally, the Eiffel Tower holds a magnetic attraction for tourists from around the world, with millions ascending its levels each year.
- Lights and Sparkles: The Eiffel Tower’s nightly light show has become a staple of the Parisian skyline. The dazzling display of 20,000 bulbs has charmed both locals and tourists alike since 1985.
- Radio Communications: The Eiffel Tower played a critical role in early radio transmissions. Its height made it an ideal location for the antennas required for broadcasting.
- World War II Significance: The Eiffel Tower was a strategic point during World War II. The cables of the lift were even cut so that Hitler and his forces could not easily access the top when they were in Paris.
- Restaurants and Shops: The Eiffel Tower hosts restaurants and shops, providing a unique shopping and dining experience with a breathtaking view.
- Elevated Art: The Eiffel Tower has been an inspiration for countless artists. Its image and silhouette are a popular motif in various forms of art, including paintings, photography, and films.
- Environmental Commitment: The Eiffel Tower is committed to eco-friendly practices. It has implemented measures such as solar panels and wind turbines to generate its own electricity.
- Immortalized in Film: The Eiffel Tower is one of the most featured landmarks in cinema. Its iconic status makes it a favorite setting for many filmmakers.
- Celebrations and Events: The Eiffel Tower serves as a focal point for national celebrations. It is particularly famous for its stunning New Year’s Eve light show.
- Architectural Influence: The design of the Eiffel Tower has influenced many later structures, such as Tokyo Tower in Japan.
- Changing Colors: Originally a reddish-brown, the Eiffel Tower has been repainted many times and is now a bronze color known as “Eiffel Tower Brown.”
Top 5 Souvenirs from the Eiffel Tower
- Eiffel Tower Keychain
- Eiffel Tower Ornament
- Eiffel Tower Jewelry (Earrings, Necklaces)
- Eiffel Tower Model
- Eiffel Tower Postcards
Souvenirs and Keepsakes
A visit to the Eiffel Tower would be incomplete without a souvenir to commemorate the experience. The range of keepsakes is vast: ornaments, keychains, earrings, vases, necklaces, and much more, all depicting the tower’s distinct shape.
The Eiffel Tower in Art and Design
The Eiffel Tower has greatly influenced art and design. Its silhouette has been incorporated into logos, clipart, cartoons, and even tattoos. DIY enthusiasts and aspiring architects can even create their own versions of the tower with 3D puzzles or Lego models.
How much does it cost to visit the eiffel tower?
he price to visit the Eiffel Tower can vary based on a number of factors such as the level to which you ascend and whether you choose to use the stairs or the lift. Here is an approximate guide:
- Access to the 2nd floor by lift: 16.60 euros for adults, 8.30 euros for children 12-24 years old, and 4.10 euros for children 4-11 years old.
- Access to the top by lift: 25.90 euros for adults, 13.00 euros for children 12-24 years old, and 6.50 euros for children 4-11 years old.
- Access to the 2nd floor by stairs: 10.40 euros for adults, 5.20 euros for children 12-24 years old, and 2.60 euros for children 4-11 years old.
- Access to the top by stairs (and lift from the 2nd floor): 19.70 euros for adults, 10.00 euros for children 12-24 years old, and 5.00 euros for children 4-11 years old.
Children under 4 years of age enter for free. Discounts may be available for groups and schools.
Five Must-Do Activities at the Eiffel Tower?
- Ascend to the top for a panoramic view of Paris.
- Dine at the “Le Jules Verne” restaurant located on the second floor.
- Enjoy a glass of champagne at the Champagne Bar.
- Take a leisurely ride on the Eiffel Tower carousel.
- Visit Gustave Eiffel’s private apartment.
Conclusion
The Eiffel Tower is more than just a landmark; it is a symbol of innovation, beauty, and a tribute to architectural prowess. It’s deeply entwined with Paris’s identity and offers visitors an unforgettable experience, from its historical intrigue to the panoramic views of the city. If you have yet to visit, the Eiffel Tower is undoubtedly a destination to add to your travel bucket list.