The Eiffel Tower: A Symbol of Love, Romance, and Freedom
Paris is known as the City of Love. It has been featured in countless movies and books as a romantic destination for couples all over the world. However, there is one structure that stands out from all the other landmarks in Paris – the Eiffel Tower.
The Eiffel Tower was built between 1887-1889 by Gustave Eiffel, a French engineer and architect. The tower was originally created to be an entrance arch for the Universal Exhibition held in Paris in 1889, which marked the centenary of the French Revolution.
At first, many people were skeptical about its construction; some even called it an eyesore. However, once it was completed, it became an instant sensation among tourists and locals alike. Today, it remains one of France’s most iconic structures and attracts millions of visitors every year.
Here are some interesting facts about this magnificent landmark:
Design
Gustave Eiffel designed the tower with three levels that offer different views of Paris from varying heights. The first level is at 57 meters high; second level is at 115 meters high; and third level (the highest) is at 276 meters high.
The design involved using iron latticework to create a lightweight yet sturdy structure capable of standing tall against winds that could reach up to 150km/hour during storms.
Construction
As mentioned earlier, construction began on January 26th,1887. It took just over two years to complete with approximately 300 workers employed on site each day during peak periods.
To construct such a large structure required precision engineering skills which Gustave had already honed through his work building bridges across Europe including Portugal’s Maria Pia Bridge near Porto.
When finally completed on March 31st,,1889 – exactly two years after breaking ground – he named it “La Tour de 300 mètres.”
The tower has undergone several renovations since its construction, including the installation of a glass floor on the first level in 2014.
Symbolism
The Eiffel Tower has come to symbolize many things over time. It is often referred to as a symbol of love and romance due to its association with Paris – the city that is known as one of the most romantic destinations in the world.
For many others, it represents freedom and democracy because it was built during a time when France was undergoing significant political changes following years of monarchy rule. The structure is also seen as an engineering marvel – proof that humans can accomplish great feats if they put their minds to it.
Visiting the Eiffel Tower
Visitors can climb stairs or take elevators (or lifts) up each level of the tower. There are two types of lifts available: regular and express. Express lifts only go up to the second floor while regular lifts take visitors all the way to the top.
There are restaurants located on both levels one and two where visitors can enjoy meals while taking in views of Paris through large windows that offer panoramic views across various parts of this beautiful city.
On clear days, visitors who reach level three have an even more spectacular view as they look out over Paris’s rooftops from almost 300 meters high above ground level!
Famous Moments at The Eiffel Tower
Over time, numerous events have taken place at this iconic landmark. Here are just a few famous moments:
First radio broadcast: In March 1898, French scientist Edouard Branly made history by broadcasting from his laboratory near Paris using radio waves transmitted via wire connected directly into La Tour de 300 mètres’ antenna system- marking what would become known today as “the first ever public radio transmission”.
Inauguration Day: On March 31st,,1889- Gustave Eiffel invited guests including politicians, artists and journalists to the official opening of his tower. The event was a huge success with over 30,000 people visiting on day one alone!
World War II: During World War II, Hitler ordered the tower’s destruction but thankfully it was never carried out.
Eiffel Tower Lights Show
One of the most popular attractions in Paris is the Eiffel Tower lights show. Every evening after sunset, thousands of lights twinkle around the tower for five minutes every hour until midnight.
The light show is an incredible sight that captures both locals and tourists alike as they marvel at its beauty.
Conclusion
In conclusion, The Eiffel Tower remains one of France’s most iconic landmarks – a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris. It represents love and romance; freedom and democracy; engineering marvels and much more besides! Whether you’re taking in stunning views from atop level three or enjoying dinner with loved ones at one of its restaurants – there really is no better place to experience all that this beautiful city has to offer than La Tour de 300 mètres!