Paris eiffel tower at twilight

The Eiffel Tower, Paris's iconic landmark, is illuminated at twilight by 20,000 bulbs creating a light show every hour.

About this subject

The Eiffel Tower was built for the 1889 World's Fair, celebrating the centennial of the French Revolution. Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel, the 330-meter iron structure was initially criticized by artists and intellectuals but is now the most-visited paid monument in the world, attracting about 7 million tourists annually. At twilight, its 20,000 sparkling bulbs light up, blinking for five minutes every hour from 9 PM to 1 AM, creating a spectacle that draws visitors and Parisians alike. Originally, the tower had gas lamps and lighthouses; electric lighting was introduced in 1900 for the World's Fair. The current system, installed in 1985, consumes about 7.8 million kWh per year but has used low-energy LED bulbs since 2014. The tower also changes color for special occasions: blue for the European Union presidency, green for St. Patrick's Day, and pink for breast cancer awareness campaigns. The view from the top, at 276 meters, offers a 360-degree panorama of Paris, including the Seine River, the Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The tower is repainted every seven years with 60 tons of paint in three shades of brown to create visual depth. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the tower was closed for 104 days, the longest shutdown since World War II. The monument also houses restaurants like Le Jules Verne, with a Michelin star, and an ice rink on the first floor. The Eiffel Tower is a symbol of romance and innovation, representing French engineering and culture worldwide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many lights does the Eiffel Tower have?

The Eiffel Tower has 20,000 sparkling bulbs that blink for five minutes every hour from 9 PM to 1 AM.

How tall is the Eiffel Tower?

The Eiffel Tower is 330 meters tall, including antennas. Its original height was 312 meters, but it was increased with the addition of radio and television antennas.

Does the Eiffel Tower change color?

Yes, the tower changes color for special occasions, such as blue for the European Union presidency, green for St. Patrick's Day, and pink for breast cancer awareness campaigns.