The Eiffel Tower is one of the most emblematic monuments of the City of Light, of France, and of the world. Gustave Eiffel and his colleagues built the Eiffel Tower for the “exceptional” Universal Exhibition in Paris in 1889, commemorating the centenary of the French Revolution and the fall of the monarchy. They inaugurated the monument on 31 March 1889 and erected it in just two years, two months, and five days, using 7,300 tonnes of puddle metal.
The impressive “Iron Lady” was originally known as the 300-metre Tower. It was the tallest tower in the world until the Chrysler Building in New York was completed in 1930. Today, the Eiffel Tower stands at 330 meters after the addition of a new antenna for digital radio in 2022.
Despite its enormous popular success, the authorities were due to dismantle this engineering marvel in 1909. Gustave Eiffel dissuaded them and conducted scientific experiments at his own expense.
In 1903, an experimental radiotelegraphy antenna installed at the top was successfully crowned. This success saved the Iron Lady from scheduled destruction and it officially became the military radiotelegraph station in 1904. From 1907, links were established with Tunisia, the United States, and then with the rest of the world. In 1921, the symbol of the city of Paris was used to broadcast radio programs. In 1964, the site was recognized by UNESCO, acknowledging its cultural and historical importance for humanity.
Since its opening in the 1960s, its unique design and beauty have attracted visitors from all over the world. The Old Iron Lady offers a breathtaking 360° view of the city, particularly from its summit.
During the 2024 Olympic Games, a host of sporting and cultural events will take place on the Champ-de-Mars and in the Seine.