Building the Iconic Eiffel Tower

Discover the fascinating construction techniques behind the Eiffel Tower! From rivets to iron lattice, learn how this masterpiece came to life. #EiffelTower #Architecture #EngineeringMarvel #ParisWonders The construction of the Eiffel Tower was a pioneering engineering project that showcased innovative techniques and materials. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the tower was constructed as the entrance arch for the 1889 Exposition Universelle, a world fair held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. The project began in January 1887 and took just over two years to complete, wrapping up in March 1889. The tower's structure comprises iron lattice, a groundbreaking choice at the time, which provided both strength and flexibility. Over 18,000 individual iron parts were prefabricated at the Eiffel factory in Levallois-Perret, on the outskirts of Paris. Each piece was precisely cut to fit together, ensuring a seamless assembly process. The construction used approximately 2.5 million thermally-assembled rivets to join the iron components. Workers used wooden scaffolding and small steam cranes mounted on the tower itself to lift the heavy sections into place. Safety was a key concern; hence, workers were equipped with guardrails and movable stages. The project employed around 300 workers, who braved heights and harsh weather conditions. The Eiffel Tower, standing at 324 meters, was the tallest man-made structure in the world until the completion of the Chrysler Building in New York in 1930. Today, it remains a symbol of architectural ingenuity and Parisian elegance.