Are you planning a trip to Paris and wondering what to do while you’re there? Look no further than the Eiffel Tower! As one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower is a must-see attraction for travelers from all over. Not only is it a symbol of love and romance, but it is also an architectural wonder. In this travel blog, we will explore the Eiffel history and architecturer, and provide tips on how to make the most of your visit.
Eiffel Tower History
The Eiffel Tower was built in 1889 as the entrance arch for the 1889 World’s Fair, also known as the Exposition Universelle. The idea for the tower came from Maurice Koechlin and Émile Nouguier, two senior engineers who worked for the Eiffel company. Gustave Eiffel, the owner of the company, took a liking to the idea and assigned the project to his chief architect, Stephen Sauvestre.
The tower was initially only meant to be a temporary structure, but it quickly became a permanent fixture in the Parisian skyline. At the time of its construction, it was the tallest man-made structure in the world, standing at 1,063 feet (324 meters). The tower held this title for over 40 years until the Chrysler Building was built in New York City in 1930.
The Construction of the Eiffel Tower
The construction of the Eiffel Tower took just over two years, from 1887 to 1889. The tower was built using over 18,000 iron pieces and 2.5 million rivets. It was assembled in four separate stages, with each stage taking approximately two months.
During the construction process, the tower faced significant opposition from Parisians who thought it was an eyesore and did not fit in with the city’s architecture. However, Eiffel and his team persevered, and the tower was completed on time and within budget.
The Architecture of the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower’s architecture is a testament to Gustave Eiffel’s engineering skills. The tower is made up of four main components: the base, the first floor, the second floor, and the third floor.
The Base
The base of the tower is made up of four massive concrete pillars, each of which is 54 meters long and 10 meters wide. These pillars support the entire weight of the tower and provide stability.
The First Floor
The first floor of the Eiffel Tower is located at a height of 57 meters and is accessible via stairs or an elevator. The first floor has a diameter of 54 meters and features a museum that showcases the history of the tower. Visitors can also enjoy a restaurant and gift shop on this level.
The Second Floor
The second floor of the Eiffel Tower is located at a height of 115 meters and is accessible via stairs or an elevator. The second floor offers stunning panoramic views of the city and features a glass floor that allows visitors to look straight down to the ground below. There are also several restaurants and gift shops on this level, making it a popular spot for visitors to enjoy a meal while taking in the views.
The Third Floor
The third floor of the Eiffel Tower is located at a height of 276 meters and is accessible only by elevator. This level offers the best views of the city, and visitors can see as far as 72 kilometers on a clear day. There is a small gift shop on this level, but no restaurants or other amenities.
How to Visit the Eiffel Tower
If you’re planning a trip to the Eiffel Tower, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make the most of your visit.
Tickets and Reservations
To avoid long lines and ensure you get to the top, it’s best to purchase your tickets in advance. You can buy tickets online or in person at the tower. There are several ticket options available, including access to the first and second floors, access to all three floors, and skip-the-line tickets.
Best Time to Visit
The Eiffel Tower is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer is the peak season, and the tower can get very crowded, so be prepared for long lines and wait times.
What to See and Do
While the views from the top of the Eiffel Tower are undoubtedly the main attraction, there are several other things to see and do while you’re there. The museum on the first floor is a great place to learn about the tower’s history, and the glass floor on the second floor is a must-see for thrill-seekers. There are also several restaurants and gift shops on the first and second floors where you can enjoy a meal or pick up a souvenir.
Conclusion
The Eiffel Tower is a true engineering marvel and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Paris. Whether you’re interested in the tower’s history or just want to take in the stunning views of the city, there is something for everyone at the Eiffel Tower. By following our tips and suggestions, you can make the most of your visit and create memories that will last a lifetime.