Eiffel Tower

Definition

The Eiffel Tower is a wrought-iron lattice tower located on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France, and was completed in 1889 as the entrance arch for the 1889 World's Fair. It is a globally recognized symbol of France and has become an iconic representation of architectural innovation and cultural pride, showcasing the blend of art, engineering, and tourism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Eiffel Tower stands at 1,083 feet (330 meters) tall, making it one of the tallest structures in Paris.
2. Originally criticized by some of Paris's leading artists and intellectuals, the Eiffel Tower is now celebrated as a masterpiece of engineering and design.
3. The tower was intended to be a temporary structure for the 1889 World's Fair but was allowed to remain due to its popularity.
4. It attracts approximately 7 million visitors annually, making it one of the most visited paid monuments in the world.
5. The Eiffel Tower has been painted multiple times since its completion, with the current color known as 'Eiffel Tower Brown'.

Review Questions

• How does the Eiffel Tower reflect the cultural identity and historical context of France during the late 19th century?
  • The Eiffel Tower embodies France's cultural identity by showcasing the country's innovative spirit during the Industrial Revolution. Completed in 1889 for the World's Fair, it represented technological progress and artistic achievement. The tower became a symbol of national pride, illustrating France's status as a leader in engineering and art during a time of rapid change and modernization.
• Evaluate the impact of the Eiffel Tower on tourism in Paris and its role as a cultural landmark.
  • The Eiffel Tower significantly transformed tourism in Paris, becoming a key attraction that draws millions of visitors each year. Its iconic status has made it synonymous with Parisian culture and identity, contributing to the city's global image. As a cultural landmark, it not only reflects France's historical significance but also serves as a focal point for celebrations, events, and artistic representations, enhancing its importance in both local and international contexts.
• Analyze how the construction of the Eiffel Tower represented advancements in engineering techniques and materials during its time.
  • The construction of the Eiffel Tower showcased revolutionary advancements in engineering techniques and materials, particularly with its use of wrought iron. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this structure demonstrated how iron could be used to create large, stable structures that were both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The tower's innovative design principles influenced future architectural practices and paved the way for modern skyscrapers, exemplifying how engineering can harmonize with artistic vision.

Related terms

Gustave Eiffel: The French engineer and architect who designed the Eiffel Tower and oversaw its construction, becoming famous for his contributions to the field of engineering.

World's Fair: An international exhibition that showcases achievements of nations, often featuring technological advancements, culture, and art, with the Eiffel Tower being built for the 1889 event.

Iron Architecture: A style of architecture that prominently features iron as a primary material, exemplified by structures like the Eiffel Tower which showcases the strength and versatility of iron in design.