Experience The Majesty Of The Eiffel Tower
Experience The Majesty Of The Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower - that majestic specter that millions flock to each year to look upon with the awe that it deserves. Standing over one thousand feet in the air, the Eiffel Tower stands in Paris, and is the fifth tallest structure in France. A monument to the innovation of French architects throughout the history of the world, the tower is comparable only to our own Washington Monument in size, grace, and beauty.
The History
The Eiffel tower was erected in 1887 as the entrance to the Exposition Univeselle. This was a World Fair held in honor of the centennial anniversary of the French revolution. Designed by none other than Gustave Eiffel. The tower stands almost 1070 feet in height, and is comprised of several thousand tons of iron. The tower was scheduled for demolition in 1909, but its merit as a communications tower persuaded the Parisian Military to reconsider. It now stands as a monument to the victory in the First Battle of the Marne.
The Eiffel Tower was built with utmost attention to detail. As it was, at the time, the tallest building in the world, the slightest miscalculation in wind force would have brought the tower to its knees at the very first gust. The corners of the tower were built with curved pieces of iron so as to resist wind movement. This has made it almost as aerodynamic as the most advance airplane!
In addition to being used as a tower for radio communication (after all, why waste all of that iron!), the Eiffel Tower also serves as a tourist attraction that has brought thousands of dollars into Paris over the years. The tower also houses two separate restaurants - the Altitude 95, which resides on the first floor; and the Jules Verne, a posh eatery on the second.
The Eiffel Tower became only the second tallest structure in the world when the construction on the Chrysler building in New York was completed in 1930. Though it may no longer be the tallest building in the world, the Eiffel Tower remains one of the most visited buildings throughout the nations. Said to be the most romantic place for marriage proposals, each spring the tower is besieged by young couples with hopeful dreams.
Whether you're young and in love, or looking for a little bit of history, the fact remains that the Eiffel Tower is one of the most amazing sights that anyone can see in their lifetime. If you haven't already, you should plan a trip to visit this marvelous monument. The Eiffel Tower is not something anyone should miss!