Every year on March 31st, the world turns its gaze towards the "City of Lights," Paris, to celebrate Eiffel Tower Day. This day commemorates the grand opening of the iconic Eiffel Tower in 1889, a landmark achievement in engineering and a lasting symbol of French culture.
More than just a tourist attraction, the Eiffel Tower stands as a testament to human ingenuity and creativity. Designed by Gustave Eiffel for the 1889 World's Fair, the tower's construction was a marvel for its time. Its intricate latticework design and soaring height challenged the architectural norms of the era.
What is the History of Eiffel Tower Day?
Eiffel Tower Day is celebrated on March 31st every year to commemorate the opening of the Eiffel Tower in 1889.
The Eiffel Tower itself was built as the centrepiece for the 1889 World's Fair in Paris, which celebrated the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. Construction began in 1887 and was completed in just over two years, a remarkable feat of engineering for the time.
Though initially controversial due to its design, the Eiffel Tower has become an iconic landmark of Paris and France. Eiffel Tower Day is a chance to appreciate the tower's beauty, history, and significance as a symbol of human ingenuity.
What is the Significance of Eiffel Tower Day?
Eiffel Tower Day holds significance for a few reasons:
- Commemorates an Engineering Marvel: It marks the anniversary of the Eiffel Tower's opening in 1889, a testament to the incredible feat of engineering for its time.
- Celebrates a Cultural Icon: The Eiffel Tower has become a globally recognised symbol of Paris and France. Eiffel Tower Day is a chance to appreciate its role in representing French culture.
- Honours Innovation and Creativity: The Eiffel Tower's design was initially controversial, but it pushed boundaries and has become a source of inspiration. The day acknowledges human ingenuity and creativity.
- Appreciation for Beauty: Eiffel Tower Day is a chance to simply admire the Eiffel Tower's aesthetics and its majestic presence on the Parisian skyline.
Why is Eiffel Tower Not on the List of 7 Wonders of the World?
There are two main reasons the Eiffel Tower isn't on the most famous "7 Wonders" list:
- Age: The most well-known "7 Wonders of the World" refers to the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, chosen in antiquity. These wonders, like the Great Pyramids of Giza, were all built thousands of years ago. The Eiffel Tower, constructed in 1889, is much more recent.
- Selection Process: There's another contender, the "New 7 Wonders of the World," chosen through a global public vote in the early 2000s. While the Eiffel Tower was a finalist, it didn't make the final cut.
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