History

Portrait of the author of the preliminary project for the 300 Meter Tower!

Why do we call it the Iron Lady?

From the first years of its existence, the Eiffel Tower inspired outlandish greed, with one con man going so far as to actually sell it!

Gustave Eiffel set up a reception lounge at the top of the Tower. But how did he welcome his distinguished visitors there? By Bertrand Lemoine 

Gustave Eiffel had the names of 72 scholars inscribed on the border encircling the first floor of the Tower. But how did he choose them and why put them there? By Bertrand Lemoine. 

Given its height and media presence, the Eiffel Tower has spurred a number of athletic exploits, performances, and challenges, sometimes with tragic results. By Bertrand Lemoine.

Since she was built, a multitude of rumors and legends have circulated about the Iron Lady. Here, we’ve collected and debunked the craziest of the myths about the Eiffel Tower.

The Tower has been in the spotlight since its beginnings. How could we imagine it not being visible at night? By Bertrand Lemoine.

Yes, the Eiffel Tower used to run on the power of steam engines before switching to electricity! By Bertrand Lemoine.

The 1889 World Fair was not the only exhibition held in Paris. Apart from the Eiffel Tower, it left few lasting traces on the landscape, but it marked a turning point in the conception of these major events. By Bertrand Lemoine.

The eldest of Gustave Eiffel's five children, his daughter Claire, played a special role in his life, eventually becoming his main assistant. By Bertrand Lemoine.

Where we answer 15 of the most popular and fascinating questions about the Eiffel Tower.