- August 20, 2017
- All things Paris
- Theatre in Paris contributor
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Updated as of February 20th, 2025
10 Eiffel Tower Facts Parisians Don’t Know
THE INSIDE SCOOP ON PARIS' MOST ICONIC MONUMENT
Welcoming almost 7 million visitors a year, the most visited paid-for monument in the world, the Eiffel Tower, has been standing tall and strong since its completion in 1889. Holding the title of the world's tallest man-made structure for 41 years, until the construction of the Chrysler building, this masterpiece of intricately laced iron has a rich history. Here are some unique facts about this breathtaking tower, which makes an appearance on everyone’s bucket list.
Gustave Eiffel
Paradis Latin Cabaret
1. Gustave Eiffel, the creator of the Eiffel Tower, is the man who also designed the metal framework of the famous Statue of Liberty, as well as the incredible Parisian cabaret venue, Le Paradis Latin.
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2. The tower was lit by gaslights until 1909. Now, the tower has 280 headlamps, making it appear to be golden as you gaze at it from the Place du Trocadero. After dusk, the tower sparkles for five minutes on the hour, thanks to its 20,000 light bulbs.
3. The Eiffel Tower was built to serve as the entrance to the Exposition Universelle in 1889, which itself celebrated the 100th anniversary of the French Republic.
4. In 1944, Hitler ordered the military governor of Paris to destroy the tower, and he refused. In addition, during the German occupation, the tower was closed to the public and Nazis attempted to attach a large swastika to the top, but it blew away. The tower also ‘fought’ in the First World War, serving as a transmitter and intercepter of radio messages - one particular German message was intercepted and decoded, allowing the Allies to thwart a German attack, as part of the final push to victory!
5. Technically, it is actually illegal to capture photos of the Eiffel Tower at night and sell them, as the light display is still protected under copyright law. The light display designed by Pierre Bideau, didn’t begin until 1983. So considering that the light display a piece of art, it will continue to be protected for an additional 70 years after his death, which won't be for quite some time.
6. The color of the Eiffel Tower has changed over the years. Every 7 years it is repainted, taking about 60 tons of paint in three shades all named “Eiffel Tower Brown”
Concerts in the Gustave Eiffel Lounge
7. Gustave Eiffel kept a small apartment on the third floor to entertain family and friends, which is now open to visitors.
8. From 1925 to 1934 the Eiffel Tower was used by car manufacturer Citroen as a giant billboard! It was recorded in the Guinness Book of Records as being the biggest advertisement in the world.
9. On windy days, the tower sways about 6 to 7 centimeters (2 to 3 inches) and during cold weather, the tower shrinks about 6 inches. Overall, its height varies about 15 centimeters (5.9 inches).
10. In one year, the lifts travel a combined distance of 103,000 km, which is equivalent to two and a half times the circumference of the Earth.
Did you know the Théâtre Le Ranelagh is also just a short walk from the Eiffel Tower?
A Gift They’ll Never Forget!
Everyone has that loved one who is impossible to buy presents for, so why not give them a day to remember instead? With our gift card, they can choose to see one of our amazing shows, concerts, cabarets and more! And you can be safe in the knowledge that you’ve given them the best present of all — an extra-special memory to last a lifetime.
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