Otto M. Schwarz

Eiffel Tower

The 330-meter-tall Eiffel Tower is one of the most famous landmarks in the world. Originally built as a temporary structure for the 1889 World's Fair, it was meant to symbolize the technological and industrial advancements of the 19th century. Construction began in 1887 and was completed in 1889, just in time for the fair, which celebrated the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. Over two years, around 300 workers assembled the 18,038 iron pieces. Until the 1930s, the Eiffel Tower, standing at 330 meters, was the tallest structure in the world and was considered a triumph of engineering. With its striking and controversial design, the Eiffel Tower broke with architectural traditions and set new standards for the use of metal structures. However, its creation was accompanied by heated debates. Many artists and intellectuals, including Charles Gounod and Alexandre Dumas, criticized the "gigantic skeleton" as unaesthetic and a threat to the Parisian skyline. Some even called for the tower to be torn down after the World's Fair. But the Eiffel Tower survived these objections and developed into a symbol not only for Paris but for all of France. Its structure was not only aesthetically significant but also practical: during World War I, it played a crucial role in radio transmission, as an antenna on its top was key to French communication. This functional use helped prevent its demolition. Today, the Eiffel Tower is a global symbol of innovation, modernity, and French culture. At major events, such as the 2024 Olympic Games, it took again center stage, attracting millions of visitors every year. Its elegance and the spectacular view from its platforms make it an unforgettable experience. Since its construction, the Eiffel Tower has welcomed more than 300 million visitors, making it one of the most visited structures in the world.