The Eiffel Tower Started Life As A Gate

eiffelThe Eiffel Tower is probably the most famous French feature in the world.   It’s instantly recognizable, it’s the tallest structure in Paris and it makes millions each year from tourists who pay to travel to the top.

But the tower actually started off life 126 years ago today as the gateway to the 1889 World’s Fair.

It was named after the engineer who designed it: Alexandre Gustave Eiffel. Ironically, French artists and intellectuals have criticized the Eiffel Tower ever since it was constructed, deploring its lack of esthetics. Most Parisians consider it to be a blight upon the city.

I spent three magical days in Paris when I was younger. A man I knew lived there, and I met up with him to spend my time in Paris virtually living as a Parisian. As a result, I missed every major landmark and tourist attraction in Paris, including the Louvre…and the Eiffel Tower.

But I don’t regret it for a moment. 🙂

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