A hollow chandelier, staircase to infinity, tower of Babel, or aviary of the world, monstrosity or hallowed symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower has run the gamut of descriptions in its 120 old years existence. Built in a record two years by Gustave Eiffel fo the 1889 Universal Exhibition, celebrating the French Revolution centenary, it was intended for demolition 20 years later. But by then it had as many artistic and intellectual fans as it had opponents when built, and it was saved for the utilitarian purposes of its broadcasting antennae. Thus the instincts of writers and artists such as Apollinaire, Dufy, Delaunay, and Pissaro were vindicated and the scandilalized agonies of Garnier, Verlaine, Leconte de Lisle and Zola relegated to history. Standing a regal 985 feet high, weighing over 7,000 tons and composed of 15,000 iron parts, the Queen of Paris sways no more than 5 inches in high winds and shrinks or grows 6 inches according to temperature. For 50 years it remained the highest structure in the world until it was usurped by New York’s Chrysler Building, although it acquired an additional 65 feet in 1957 when television antennae were added to existing radio, telegraph, and meteorological apparatus.
About four million people visit this extraordinary construction annually, so be prepared for a long wait at the elevators. Go to the third floor for Paris’s most spectacular view.
It’s wiser to book your Paris Must See Tour and Eiffel Tower Lunch in advance, because demand is very high.
