Celebrating Eiffel Tower Day: Unveiling Paris’ iconic jewel on this day

Did you know that Paris has a motto on the Eiffel Tower? It is Fluctuat nec mergitur; Latin for Tossed But Not Sunk

In the heart of Paris, amidst a tapestry of cobblestone streets and whispering avenues stands an architectural marvel that transcends mere steel and iron. Yes, you guessed it correctly – The Eiffel Tower! Every curve and contour of this 330m (from bottom to tip) tells a story — a tale of ambition, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of greatness.

Today on Eiffel Tower Day — March 31 — here are a few facts. But before we unveil those, let’s spill some reasons why this day is celebrated.

It is celebrated to commemorate the completion and inauguration of the Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. On March 31, 1889, Gustave Eiffel, along with his team of engineers and workers, officially unveiled the Eiffel Tower to the public during the Exposition Universelle (World’s Fair) held in Paris. This occasion marks the culmination of years of meticulous planning, innovative design, and arduous construction efforts.

·         Did you know? Approximately 60 tonnes of paint is regularly applied to the structure every seven years, serving not only to deter rust but also to preserve the iconic allure of the landmark known as La dame de fer (The Iron Lady).

·         There is a penthouse built at the top of the tower. The highest level of the tower houses a penthouse apartment that Gustave Eiffel personally reserved. This exclusive space, once frequented by esteemed guests like Thomas Edison, was originally designed as Eiffel’s private residence. It has been reimagined as a replica of Eiffel’s office, featuring wax figures of Eiffel, his daughter, and Edison.

·         Most people get confused as the name implies but the fact is, Gustave Eiffel didn’t design the tower. While the tower is named Eiffel, it was Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier — two engineers who worked for his company — who designed the structure.

·         The tower was supposed to be torn down after 20 years. Initially, intended as a temporary exhibit to showcase France’s industrial advancements at the World’s Fair, the Eiffel Tower was to face demolition after 20 years. However, Gustave Eiffel’s strategic addition of a radio antenna prolonged its existence. Recognising its significance, the French government granted a 70-year lease extension in 1910. By 1980, the tower had evolved into an enduring symbol of Paris and France, securing its place in history.

·         The tower is designed to sway in response to wind and expands slightly during summer due to heat, growing a few centimetres. Additionally, it leans about six inches away from the sun to balance the effects of solar heating on its structure.

·         At the summit of the tower, visitors can enjoy a glass of Champagne at the Champagne Bar, a fitting reward after ascending the stairs. It’s a delightful way to savour the breath-taking view while indulging in a bubbly treat.

·         The tower was sold! A con artist named Victor Lustig ‘sold the Eiffel Tower for scrap metal on two separate occasions in the early 20th century. He managed to convince scrap dealers to pay him cash under the guise of a government contract.

·         The Eiffel Tower has been painted various colors throughout its history. Initially, it was a reddish-brown colour, and over the years, it has been painted yellow and even a shade of bronze known as ‘Eiffel Tower Brown’.

·         During World War I, the Eiffel Tower intercepted enemy radio communications, playing a crucial role in the Allied victory at the First Battle of the Marne.

·         The Eiffel Tower features a beacon that emits light beams reaching up to 80 km away. The beacon was first installed for the Millennium Celebration in 2000.

·         Gustave Eiffel engraved the names of 72 French scientists, engineers, and mathematicians on the sides of the tower to honour their contributions, although these names were painted over and only restored in the late 20th century.             

·         Since its opening, the Eiffel Tower has welcomed over 250 million visitors, making it one of the most visited paid monuments in the world.