Eiffel Tower — The Real History Behind Paris’ Most Famous Monument
The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognized landmarks in the world. For many visitors, it’s the #1 “must-see” in Paris — and yes, it’s worth it. But beyond the photos and panoramic views, the Eiffel Tower has a fascinating history that most travelers never hear.
Built for a World Event
The Eiffel Tower was built for the 1889 World’s Fair (Exposition Universelle), organized to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. At the time, it was a bold demonstration of engineering and modern design — something that had never been seen before in Europe.
Designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel’s company, the tower quickly became the star attraction of the fair. What’s surprising is that it was originally planned to stay for only a limited time. Many Parisians didn’t think it would become the symbol of the city — and some even strongly disliked it in the beginning.
Why It Was So Controversial
When the Eiffel Tower was built, it was considered shocking and “too industrial” by some artists and writers. People feared it would ruin the beauty of Paris’ classic architecture. Today, of course, the Eiffel Tower is a masterpiece in itself — but its rise to fame took time.
A Monument That Moves
Here’s a fun fact that shows how alive this structure is: because it’s made of iron, the Eiffel Tower can expand slightly in warm weather and contract in colder temperatures. It’s one of the many reasons it’s such an impressive piece of engineering.
The Best Way to Experience It
There are many ways to enjoy the Eiffel Tower — from standing beneath it to visiting the upper levels. Each moment feels different:
- From below, you feel the scale and beauty of the iron structure.
- From the middle level, you get the perfect mix of height and city detail.
- From the top, you see the whole city layout and famous landmarks in one view.
STRANGERS DEN Tip: The Perfect Time for Photos
If you want the best “Paris moment,” aim for late afternoon into sunset. You’ll capture:
- Daylight Photos
- warm golden light
- The magical evening sparkle
The Eiffel Tower isn’t just a monument — it’s a symbol of Paris changing, evolving, and inspiring the world.
