10 Exciting Things You May Not Know About Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most beautiful and famous structures worldwide, but how much do you know about this iconic Paris landmark? The Eiffel Tower debuted to the public on March 31, 1889. The beautiful metal structure has captivated the globe for more than 130 years. However, there are some lesser-known facts about the Eiffel Tower that you may not be aware of. So we've compiled a list.

1. The Tower Was Proposed To Be Demolished In 1909.

Built for the 1889 World's Fair, the original plan was to dismantle the edifice after 20 years. However, engineer Gustave Eiffel arranged to install a radio antenna and transmitter in the tower, saving it from demolition because of its significance to communications. As a result, the tower now has 120 antennas transmitting radio and television signals.

2. It Is Truly Massive In Size.

The Eiffel Tower is colossal in every sense of the word. It is 1,000 feet tall and is anchored to the earth by four massive legs. You should budget time for exploration rather than simply walking past it. Under one of the legs, there is a wonderful park with a pond. Allow several hours to explore the structure's outside and interior. 

3. Construction Time - 2 Years 2 months & 5 days.

Eiffel had intended to complete the project in twelve months, but it took twice as long as he'd expected it to. Construction began on January 28th, 1887, and was finished on March 31st, 1889, just for the Universal Exhibition's formal inauguration.

As originally planned, it took two years to build the square-based iron edifice that now serves as a symbol of Paris. 

4. The Tower's Color Imparts An Optical Illusion.

The tower is repainted every seven years to avoid oxidation, using around 60 tonnes of paint. Over time, it's taken on a variety of hues, including red and yellow ochre. To provide a consistent color contrast against the sky, the color at the top of the building is somewhat different from the color lower down.

When viewed against a bright sky, the tower's upper portions appear to have a deeper golden (bronze) paint color than the lower ones. A single color makes it appear as though the tower is painted in one uniform tone.

5. One Of The Most Popular Paid Tourist Attractions.

The Eiffel Tower draws about seven million tourists each year, who pay an additional entrance fee to view the structure. A whopping 300 million visitors have viewed the skyscraper since it opened its doors in 1889.

6. First Wireless Telegraph Transmitter.

On November 5th, 1898, Eugène Ducretet tested wireless telegraphy between the Eiffel Tower and the Pantheon for the first time. (4 kilometers away). The summit of the tower was chosen to place the transmitting station. As a result, waves crossed the English Channel for the first time in 1899.

In 1913, the Tower broadcast communications through electric waves to the United States and ships crossing the Atlantic Ocean within a 6,000-kilometer radius.

7. Holds A Record In The Guinness Book

The car company ‘Citroen’ utilized the Eiffel Tower as a massive billboard from 1925 until 1934, and the Guinness Book of Records recognized it as the world's largest advertising.

8. The Tower Still Uses 19th Century Elevators.

On Eiffel Tower's east and west pillars, elevators to the third story still utilize original 1899 hydraulic equipment and two of its original elevator vehicles. Despite certain improvements, the technology remains mostly the same as when it was first introduced about a century ago.

9. It Is Costlier Than The Las Vegas Tower.

From March 26, 2010, a ride to the top of the authentic Eiffel Tower in an elevator costs 13 euros for adults. The Eiffel Tower Experience costs $10 for an adult in Las Vegas. But worry not, you can easily save that amount during your stay at an affordable vacation rental apartment in Paris.

10. There's An Apartment At The Top Of The Staircase.

An office for Gustave Eiffel was built at the very top of the tower. A waxwork replica of Eiffel and Thomas Edison is on display in the apartment, which was used as a reception hall for visiting dignitaries by Eiffel in the 19th century.

Conclusion

For more than a century, the Eiffel Tower has dominated the skyline of Paris, and its reputation and allure have only grown stronger. Yet, despite its worldwide popularity, its origins were quite challenging. The Eiffel Tower is still the indisputable star of landmarks, and it's no surprise that it's the world's most visited monument. 

If you are planning a tour to Paris in the upcoming vacation then get ready for the gush of euphoria. Our short-term rentals in Paris can give you a comfortable yet affordable stay in this city of charm. So pack your bags and start off for a holiday that will remain immortal in your memories for life. Contact Especial rentals for a quick discussion.