DigytaliaThe Eiffel Tower, an iconic symbol of Paris and France, has been capturing the hearts and imaginations of people worldwide since its completion in 1889. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this iron lattice tower has become one of the most recognizable structures globally. But there might be a few things you didn’t know about this famous landmark. Here are five lesser-known facts about the Eiffel Tower.
It Was Almost Never Built
The Eiffel Tower was initially met with strong opposition from prominent French artists and intellectuals, who viewed it as an ugly, monstrous addition to the Parisian landscape. They even signed a petition called the “Artists’ Protest” to stop its construction. However, Gustave Eiffel managed to convince the authorities and the public of the tower’s significance, and construction proceeded.
The Tower Was Almost Dismantled
The Eiffel Tower was originally intended to be a temporary structure, built for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair) held in Paris. Its initial permit allowed it to stand for only 20 years, after which it was supposed to be dismantled. However, its usefulness as a radio transmission tower saved it from being taken down, and it has since become a permanent fixture in the Parisian skyline.
It Grows And Shrinks
The Eiffel Tower is made of iron, which expands and contracts with temperature changes. During the summer months, when the temperature rises, the iron expands, causing the tower to grow by up to 6 inches (15 centimeters). Conversely, the tower shrinks by the same amount during the colder months.
It Was Once The Tallest Structure In The World
Upon its completion in 1889, the Eiffel Tower became the tallest man-made structure globally, standing at 1,083 feet (330 meters) tall. It held this title for 41 years until the completion of the Chrysler Building in New York City in 1930.
It Requires A Lot Of Paint
To protect the iron structure from rust and maintain its appearance, the Eiffel Tower is painted every seven years. This process requires approximately 60 tons of paint, applied by a team of 25 painters over the course of 18 months. The tower has been painted various shades of colors throughout its history, including red, yellow, and bronze, but its current color is a specially designed shade called “Eiffel Tower Brown.”
There is much more to the Eiffel Tower than its impressive height and beautiful architecture. As you can see from Be On The Run travel blog, the Eiffel Tower from its conception, to construction, to today’s preservation efforts, the tower has provided a unique experience for those who view it on a daily basis as well as those who gaze upon it from afar.
Be On The Run travel blog covers a wide range of travel destinations and topics, including Paris, France. Be On The Run is a travel blog for those who love to explore new places and experience the world in a unique way.
Conclusion
These lesser-known facts about the Eiffel Tower showcase the fascinating history and engineering behind one of the world’s most famous landmarks. Next time you visit Paris, take a moment to appreciate the tower’s unique story and marvel at its enduring beauty.
