Discover fascinating facts about the Eiffel Tower, from its secret apartment to its history and unique functions that make it more than just a Parisian icon.
The Eiffel Tower, one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, is an irreplaceable symbol of Paris. With its long history and stunning design, it has captivated the hearts of millions of tourists since it was first built in 1889 for the World’s Fair.
Although many people already know about this tower, it turns out there are many unique facts that are rarely known. Here are ten interesting facts that reveal another side of the Eiffel Tower that will definitely surprise you.
1. There’s a Secret Apartment at the Top of the Tower
One of the most surprising things about the Eiffel Tower is that there is a private apartment designed by Gustave Eiffel at the top.
This small apartment was built to be Eiffel’s private residence, where he welcomed important guests such as inventor Thomas Edison.
Although the apartment is no longer occupied by Eiffel, the space is open to the public and can be visited by tourists on special tours. Inside, visitors can see replicas of furniture once used by Eiffel.
2. Gustave Eiffel Was Not the Designer of This Tower
Although the tower is closely associated with the name of Gustave Eiffel, he was not the only person who designed the famous structure.
Two engineers, Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier, worked under Eiffel’s company and were the ones who drew the initial designs for the Eiffel Tower.
They then collaborated with architect Stephen Sauvestre, who added artistic touches to enhance their original design.
The tower was originally built for a contest at the 1889 World’s Fair and was presented as a work of industry and technology. Today, visiting this iconic landmark is one of the top Things to do in Paris, offering breathtaking views and a rich historical experience.
3. The Eiffel Tower Was Supposed to Be Tear Down After 20 Years
The Eiffel Tower, now a permanent symbol of Paris, was originally planned to be torn down after 20 years. It was originally built only for the World’s Fair as a testament to the greatness of French industry.
However, due to its enormous usefulness in the field of telecommunications, with the installation of radio antennas and wireless telegraph transmitters, the government finally decided to maintain this tower.
Its existence turned out to be more important than just a temporary exhibition, and thus the Eiffel Tower remains standing strong to this day.
4. Hitler Wanted to Destroy the Eiffel Tower
During World War II, when Germany occupied France, Adolf Hitler ordered the Eiffel Tower to be destroyed.
Although the order was issued, the destruction of the Eiffel Tower never happened. As a form of resistance, French fighters cut the tower’s elevator cables, causing Nazi soldiers to have to climb the tower’s stairs to be able to raise their flag.
Despite attempts to destroy it, the Eiffel Tower remains a symbol of pride for the French people.
5. The Eiffel Tower Is a “Cousin” of the Statue of Liberty
Before the Eiffel Tower was built, the same firm that designed it was also involved in the design of the Statue of Liberty, which became a symbol of freedom for the United States.
Engineer Maurice Koechlin, who worked with Gustave Eiffel, also played a role in the initial design of the world-famous statue.
Although the two are very different works, they both reflect the high level of design and engineering expertise that the Eiffel firm possessed in the 19th century.
6. The Eiffel Tower Once Served as a Scientific Laboratory
The Eiffel Tower not only serves as a tourist attraction, but also once served as a scientific laboratory.
Gustave Eiffel used the third floor of the tower for a meteorological laboratory where he conducted scientific experiments in physics and aerodynamics.
The tower became a place for various experiments that focused on the study of air flow and the effects of weather on iron structures. Eiffel also opened his laboratory to other scientists who were interested in conducting research in the tower.
7. The Eiffel Tower Can Move
Even though it looks very sturdy, the Eiffel Tower can actually move. Weather changes, especially strong winds and high temperatures, can cause the tower’s structure to sway or move slightly.
When the temperature rises, the iron in the tower expands and can shrink up to 50 cm. This shows how the Eiffel Tower, although made of large and strong iron, has the ability to adapt to changes in temperature and weather.
8. It Takes a Lot of Paint to Maintain the Eiffel Tower
Every year, the Eiffel Tower requires extensive maintenance to keep it looking beautiful and to prevent rust.
Every seven years, about 60 tons of paint are used to coat the tower and keep its iron structure intact. This painting process is not only done for aesthetic purposes, but also as an effort to protect the tower from corrosion and damage from the harsh Parisian weather.
9. There is a Secret Military Bunker Under the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower not only holds cultural and scientific history, but also has a military side. Under the tower’s southern pillar, there is a secret military bunker that was used during World War II.
The bunker was connected to the Ecole Militaire via an underground tunnel and was used as part of the French defense system.
oday, the bunker has been converted into a small museum where tourists can visit to see historical artifacts and understand the role of the Eiffel Tower during the war.
10. Eiffel Tower Light: Aesthetics and Symbolism
The lights that illuminate the Eiffel Tower are not only a beautiful sight at night, but also have a deep symbolic meaning. In 2000, to celebrate the millennium, the tower was decorated with thousands of flashing lights that light up every night for five minutes on the hour.
Although this was originally intended as a temporary celebration, the overwhelming public response prompted the Paris government to make it permanent.
Today, the flashing lights have become one of the main symbols of the city of Paris and are often used at major events and international celebrations.
The Eiffel Tower is more than just a solid iron structure in Paris— it is a symbol of history, innovation, and struggle.
From the secret apartment that once belonged to Gustave Eiffel to the tower’s role in scientific research and as a symbol of resistance, every part of the Eiffel Tower has a rich story.
As one of the most famous Tourist Attractions in France, these unique facts add to the wonder of the tower that continues to stand strong and inspire the world.
As an icon of Paris, the Eiffel Tower not only offers beautiful views but also carries invaluable stories for those who want to delve into its history and mysteries.
