Named after its architect and chief engineer Gustave Eiffel, this monumental structure was completed in 1889 as a temporary construction to mark the Exposition Universelle or Worlds Fair, an event held to commemorate a century of freedom in France after the historic French Revolution. Meant to stand only for 20 years after its construction, the French authorities overturned their decision to dismantle the structure due to its potential use as a communications tower, a function it carries on to this day.
The tower took two years, 300 workers, 18 thousand pieces of puddled iron, and two and a half million steel rivets to be completed. Its design was met with mixed reactions, attracting criticism from French luminaries and citizens, but was heralded as an architectural masterwork by many visitors including renowned personalities such as Sir Thomas Edison.
In the many years following its construction, the tower became a global symbol for modern architecture and the defining feature of the Parisian skyline. The Eiffel Tower continues to attract millions of visitors to its site annually and has recorded the highest number of visitors among any monument in the world.
The Tower is currently the tallest building in Paris and held the title of the tallest man made structure in the world for 41 years until the construction of the Chrystler Building in New York City in 1930. Visitors to the tower can choose to ascend to one of the towers three levels using the steps or elevators. The first and second floors of the structure house two exclusive restaurants, the Altitude 95 on the first floor, and the globally acclaimed Jules Verne on the second.
Besides the spectacular view of Paris from each of its levels, the tower also has many other attractions such as the ice skating rink which takes place on its first level every winter. The Eiffel Tower is also the site of many daring stunts which, regardless of legality, adds an ambience of adventure and romanticism to its character. All in all, this monument has become a historic icon of human potential and creativity and is likely to be an inspiration for generations to come.
For those who desire to be enraptured in the most romantic city in the world, there are many luxurious accommodations in offer. Shangri-La Hotel, Paris is one such accommodation that is surrounded in the most elegant ambiance with breathtaking views and a number of museums to visit. This
Paris luxury hotel offers the plushest settings to ensure you have a comfortable stay. The most luxurious
hotel in Paris, it is one of the largest among all luxury hotels that provides exclusivity in its exquisite location.
