The construction of the Eiffel Tower began on January 26, 1887, with the excavation for its foundation. Just a couple of years, two months, and five days later, on March 31, 1889, the tower was completed in record time. The world welcomed a new monument in the skyline of Paris, the Eiffel Tower.
The mastermind behind this iconic tower was Gustave Eiffel, who also designed it. Upon completion, Gustave Eiffel unfurled a flag atop its third level, symbolizing the public opening of this iron giant. Illuminated by 10,000 gas lamps, the sight was unprecedented. Today, it's one of the most visited monuments in the world, attracting around seven million visitors annually.
Also Read: The Discovery of the World's Largest Diamond on This Day - Where Is It Now?
From 107 proposed designs, the Eiffel Tower was chosen for the 1889 World's Fair (Exposition Universelle) to represent technological prowess and celebrate the centenary of the French Revolution.
Who Designed the Eiffel Tower?
This magnificent structure is the brainchild of Gustave Eiffel, architect Stephen Sauvestre, and engineers Maurice Koechlin and Émile Nouguier. Gustave Eiffel was already well-known for his work in the metal industry, including the steel framework for the Statue of Liberty in New York, completed three years earlier.
Also Read: The Inception of Beer Cans on This Day - Celebrating a New Taste
The construction involved 7,300 tons of iron, over 300 workers, and a fleet of steam cranes and hydraulic jacks for maneuvering massive girders. Starting on January 26, 1887, the construction was completed in just 796 days, an extraordinary achievement. Standing 300 meters tall, it was the tallest structure in the world until surpassed by New York's Chrysler Building in 1930.
