The Eiffel Tower: Paris's most iconic monument

The Eiffel Tower is the immortal symbol of Paris. Whether adored or controversial, the Iron Lady has been the talk of the town ever since its foundation stone was laid.

It was built by Gustave Eiffel (also responsible for the Statue of Liberty) and his collaborators for the1889 Universal Exhibition. The 324-meter-high tower is located northwest of the Champ-de-Mars, on the banks of the Seine, in the capital's ^7th arrondissement.

The project was a feat of engineering for its time, requiring no fewer than 5,300 sketches and 18,000 parts. During the 1889 Universal Exhibition, it was visited by almost two million people in just six months. Today, some seven million visitors come every year to discover this monument that has become the symbol of the capital!

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Initially slated for demolition after the World's Fair, the monument became a radio and TV broadcasting antenna. Today, tourists can climb up to admire the breathtaking view over the whole of Paris.

You can even have lunch or dinner here, as several restaurants have opened: the 58 Tour Eiffel, the Jules Verne, the Gustave Eiffel buffet and the champagne bar all offer the chance to eat and enjoy the view at the same time.

Good to know: theillumination of the Eiffel Tower takes place for the first five minutes of every hour, from dusk until 1am. Now you know what to look out for on your watch!

The Eiffel Tower can be visited every day of the year, and there are different prices depending on your age and the way you explore the Tower. The elevator ride is more expensive, but easier. If you prefer, you can still climb the 1,665 steps to the top of the Iron Lady. Whatever your choice, it's advisable to book your visit in advance.

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Did you know? The Eiffel Tower has seen many parachute jumps, the first dating back to 1912.
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