The Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, is one of the most well-known structures in the world. Designed as the centerpiece of the 1889 World’s Fair, the Tower has come to be a popular tourist attraction that attracts approximately seven million visitors each year. Here are some interesting facts about this world-famous attraction.
1. The Tower Wasnβt Made to Stand Forever
The Eiffel Tower was built as a temporary display for the 1889 World Fair in Paris, which commemorated the French Revolution’s 100th anniversary. In an attempt to extend the Towerβs life, Gustave Eiffel erected a radio antenna and wireless telegraph transmitter in the Tower. The French government decided that the tower was too useful to be dismantled. The Eiffel Tower is still used to broadcast radio and television programs around the world today.
2. The Eiffel Tower Changes In Size
The tower’s metal contracts in the winter and expands in the summer allowing the tower to change in size throughout the year. The Eiffel Tower’s height can change by up to 15 cm. This happens because puddled iron, which the Tower is made out of, is sensitive to variations in temperature. So, when temperatures rise, the Tower increases in size, thanks to thermal expansion, and during winter the structure contracts.
3. The Tower Can Move
The tower was crafted to resist gusty winds. However, it does sway during a storm and if the weather conditions worsen you can see it move. Itβs not the only weather phenomenon that makes the tower move. Apart from making it expand, the sun also causes the tower to tilt away from it. Since the sun hits only one out of the four slides, the Eiffel Tower tends to lean. On a clear day, the top of the tower can move in a circle 15 centimeters in diameter.
4. Thereβs a Secret Apartment at the Top
At the top of the tower, Architect Gustave Eiffel built a private apartment where he could conduct experiments and entertain distinguished visitors. One of the more notable of his guests was Thomas Edison. The office offers one of the best vantage points from the tower but is closed off to visitors for many years. However, you can view lifelike wax figures of Eiffel, his daughter Claire and Thomas Edison conversing in the room.