The Eiffel Tower was built for the International Exhibition of Paris of 1889, which commemorated the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. The tower was designed by Gustave Eiffel. At 300 meters tall, and weighing 5,500 tonnes, it was the world's tallest building until 1930. Containing 15,000 pieces of iron and over 2.5 million rivets, the tower took 2 years to build. Despite its narrow top, in high winds the top sways only 12 cm. Its height can vary as much as 15 cm depending on the temperature. The tower has three platforms. A restaurant, the 'Jules Verne', is on the second platform. The top platform has a bar, souvenir shop, and a restoration of the office of Gustave Eiffel. From its platforms, especially the top one, the view of Paris is incredible. |