Paris eiffel tower at twilight

The Eiffel Tower in Paris, lit at twilight, embodies one of the world's most iconic landmarks.

About this subject

The Eiffel Tower, built for the 1889 Paris World's Fair, is an architectural landmark. Standing 330 meters tall, its iron lattice design was revolutionary at the time and initially faced criticism from French artists. Today, it welcomes about 7 million visitors annually, becoming a global symbol of the French capital. At twilight, the tower is illuminated by 20,000 electric lights that sparkle every half-hour, creating a unique visual spectacle. The sunset over Paris often highlights the metal framework against an orange-pink sky. A lesser-known fact: the tower shrinks about 15 cm in winter due to metal contraction from cold temperatures, but returns to its full height in spring.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was the Eiffel Tower built?

The Eiffel Tower was constructed between 1887 and 1889 for the Paris World's Fair, with inauguration on March 31, 1889.

How many visitors does the Eiffel Tower receive annually?

The tower attracts approximately 7 million visitors yearly, making it one of the most visited monuments globally.

Why does the Eiffel Tower sparkle every half-hour?

The 20,000 light points shine as a tribute to 19th-century gas lamps, with the golden glow spectacle introduced in 1985.