Eiffel Tower, Lattice tower in Paris, France
The Eiffel Tower is a wrought-iron lattice tower on the Champ de Mars in Paris, France. It has a square base with four arched legs that curve inward and rise to a first platform, then a second, and finally a slender shaft that ends in a small top.
It was built from 1887 to 1889 for the World's Fair marking the centennial of the French Revolution. Originally meant to stand for 20 years, it was saved because of its use for radio transmissions.
Locals call it "La dame de fer" (the Iron Lady), and its silhouette appears on souvenirs, postcards, and in films. The tower is a meeting point for Parisians and a highlight for visitors from around the world.
You can walk up to the first and second levels, but the top is usually reached by lift. Book your spot ahead and expect security checks at the entrance, especially in busy times.
The tower can grow about 6 inches (15 cm) taller in summer heat, and the original 1889 elevator still runs in one leg. Gustave Eiffel kept a small apartment at the top, where he hosted guests like Thomas Edison.
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