The Eiffel Tower was primarily built as the magnificent entrance arch for the 1889 Exposition Universelle (World's Fair), held in Paris, France.
A Monument for the World's Fair
The primary purpose of the Eiffel Tower's construction was to serve as the iconic centerpiece and gateway to the 1889 Exposition Universelle. This grand international exhibition aimed to showcase France's industrial and engineering prowess to the world.
Commemorating a Centenary
The year 1889 held significant historical importance for France. The Exposition Universelle was strategically timed to coincide with the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, a pivotal event that reshaped the nation's history. The tower was intended to be a lasting symbol of France's industrial age and a testament to its engineering capabilities at this monumental anniversary.
Conception and Construction
The idea for a monumental iron tower came from a competition launched in 1886. Architects and engineers were invited to submit designs for a structure that would dominate the Champ de Mars during the Exposition.
The Vision and the Competition
Gustave Eiffel's company, a renowned bridge and railway builder, won the competition with their audacious design for a 300-meter (984-foot) iron tower. The design was conceived by Eiffel's senior engineers, Maurice Koechlin and Émile Nouguier, and architect Stephen Sauvestre. Their innovative approach, utilizing a complex lattice-work structure, allowed for an unprecedented height.
Breaking Ground
The challenging construction project began with the first digging work on January 26, 1887. Over two years later, the tower was completed, standing as the tallest man-made structure in the world at the time, ready to welcome millions of visitors to the Exposition.
For more details on its origins and architectural features, explore the Eiffel Tower's history.
