Eiffel tower paris night

The Eiffel Tower lit up against the Paris night sky is one of the world's most iconic landmarks, drawing millions of visitors each year.

About this subject

The Eiffel Tower was built between 1887 and 1889 as the centerpiece of the 1889 World's Fair in Paris, which celebrated the centennial of the French Revolution. Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel, the wrought-iron lattice tower stood 300 meters tall at the time, making it the world's tallest structure until the Chrysler Building in 1930. Initially criticized by artists and intellectuals who deemed it monstrous, today it is the most visited paid monument in the world, attracting nearly 7 million tourists annually.

At night, the tower comes alive with its golden lighting, composed of over 20,000 bulbs that create a characteristic glow. Since 1985, an automated system controls the lights, and since 2000, a sparkling show with 20,000 bulbs flashes for five minutes every hour after sunset until closing time. The tilt-shift effect, common in nighttime photos, reduces the perceived scale of the tower, highlighting its silhouette against the starry Paris sky.

Beyond its tourist appeal, the Eiffel Tower served important scientific purposes: it was used for radio experiments, including the first long-distance radio transmission in 1898, and currently supports television and radio antennas. The structure is repainted every seven years with 60 tons of paint to protect it from corrosion.

The tower is a symbol of romance and engineering, appearing in countless films such as 'Pretty Woman' and 'Midnight in Paris.' Its location on the Champ de Mars, near the Seine River, offers panoramic views of the city, especially stunning at night.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall is the Eiffel Tower?

The Eiffel Tower is 330 meters tall, including the antennas at the top.

When was it built?

It was built between 1887 and 1889 for the 1889 World's Fair in Paris.

How many lights are on the Eiffel Tower at night?

The lighting system has over 20,000 bulbs, and the sparkling show uses 20,000 flashing bulbs.