PARIS, France — The Eiffel Tower rises into the sky, viewed from its base on a sunny day. The iconic wrought-iron lattice structure, a symbol of Paris, stretches upward, showcasing its intricate architectural design.


Photograph by David Coleman. The Eiffel Tower, an enduring symbol of Paris and France, stands as a testament to human ingenuity and architectural prowess. Constructed between 1887 and 1889 as the centerpiece of the 1889 World's Fair (Exposition Universelle), it was designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel and his team. Initially met with criticism from some of Paris's artistic and literary elite, the tower has since become one of the world's most recognizable and visited monuments. Rising to a height of 324 meters (1,063 feet), the Eiffel Tower held the title of the world's tallest man-made structure for 41 years until the completion of the Chrysler Building in New York City in 1930. The tower's unique design, utilizing wrought iron lattice work, was revolutionary for its time, showcasing the possibilities of metal construction in the wake of the Industrial Revolution. The tower consists of three levels accessible to visitors, with restaurants on the first and second levels. The top level offers panoramic views of Paris extending up to 60 kilometers on a clear day. The structure's design allows it to sway up to 6-7 centimeters in strong winds, a flexibility that ensures its stability. Beyond its role as a tourist attraction, the Eiffel Tower has served various practical functions throughout its history. It has been used as a radio transmission tower, a telegraphy station during World War I, and continues to house numerous communications antennas. The tower's appearance has evolved over time, having been repainted numerous times. Its color has varied from reddish-brown to yellow-ochre, before settling on the specially-designed "Eiffel Tower Brown" used today. Every seven years, the tower receives a new coat of paint, requiring 60 tons of paint to cover its entire surface. As a cultural icon, the Eiffel Tower has featured prominently in art, literature, and cinema, often serving as a shorthand for Paris itself. Its image is protected under French law, with the nighttime il


Size: 3872px × 2592px
Location: Eiffel Tower, Paris, Paris, France
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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