Originally Planned for Barcelona: Eiffel Tower was first designed for Spain

Built in Just Two Years: Construction completed in record time, 1887-1889

18,038 Iron Parts: Tower assembled from over 18,000 individual pieces

Changes Color Annually: Repainted every seven years to maintain appearance

Hosted World’s Fair in 1889: Unveiled during the Exposition Universelle in Paris

Initial Public Criticism: Many artists and intellectuals initially opposed its design

Radio Transmission Pioneer: First major structure to broadcast radio waves

Over 7 Million Visitors Annually: One of the most-visited monuments globally

Height Variations: Grows about 6 inches in summer heat

Used as a Scientific Laboratory: Conducted numerous experiments and scientific research

Secret Apartment Inside: Eiffel had a private apartment at the top

2.5 Million Lights: Illuminated by a dazzling 2.5 million lightbulbs