The Iconic Eiffel Tower Undergoes a Stunning Makeover
As one of the most famous landmarks in the world, the Eiffel Tower on the Champ de Mars in Paris is hugely recognisable. Ahead of the 2024 Olympics, it is currently undergoing a makeover that will enhance its outward appearance by making it brighter.
Historical Background
Constructed between 1887 and 1889 as the entrance to the 1889 World’s Fair, or Exposition Universelle, the Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower that stands 324 metres tall. It has been painted 19 times, a feat that takes 60 tonnes of paint. Since 1968, it has been painted in a specially-designed shade of brown, but preparations are now underway to shift to a yellow-brown color, giving it a more golden hue when the work is finished.
A Costly and Complex Renovation Process
During the makeover, which is estimated to cost around €50 million ($60 million), previous layers of paint must be stripped off. This is a hazardous process due to the presence of lead, requiring strict health protocols for workers. The paint covering the structure has been analyzed by architects who specialize in Paris’s historical monuments.
Color History of the Eiffel Tower
It may come as a surprise to some that the landmark was previously painted in brighter hues. When it was first erected, the tower was painted red at the request of its designer, Gustave Eiffel. That color changed to ochre, or light orange, just three years later. In 1899, it was painted orange-yellow at its base and light yellow on top, showcasing a vibrant palette. It spent the 47 years from 1907 to 1954 covered in a yellow-brown shade before being painted a brown-red hue in 1968.
Eiffel Tower’s Role in the 2024 Olympics
The Eiffel Tower is set to serve as a backdrop for the triathlon and open water swimming events in the 2024 Summer Olympics. More than 250 million people have visited the structure since it opened, with over seven million visitors annually. Consequently, ensuring it looks its best has never been more crucial.
This article was first published on Mar 13, 2018, and updated on Feb 10, 2021.
