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Eiffel Tower
When one thinks of France, the Eiffel Tower immediately comes to mind. This iron tower is located on the bank of the Seine, and it is a prime tourist spot with over five million visitors each year. The tower, designed by engineer Gustave Eiffel, is 300 m high. It was completed in 1889, and it was the tallest building in the world at the time. It remained so for over four decades, until the 319-metre high Chrystler Building was erected in 1930. Today it is still among the tallest buildings in France, second only to the Allouis longwave transmitter.
The construction process of the tower began in 1887. It was initially intended to comprise the entrance to the World Fair in honor of 100 years since the famous Revolution of France. The tower carried an immense risk, as there were little support structures and no floors between the top and bottom platforms. The whole construction process claimed a single victim. The total weight of the tower is over 10,000 tons. There are 1665 steps to the top. It is very well-preserved, and 50 tons of paint are applied every seven years to avoid corrossion.

It is hard to believe that many people considered the tower to be very ugly at the beginning. Obviously this perception has changed. Its famous architect was licensed to leave the Eiffel Tower standing for two decades. Later it was found that it served excellent communication purposes, and the permit was extended. It has been utilized for radio transmittion since 1900. The tower boasts two excellent restaurants - Jules Verne and Altitude 95. The former is a luxury diner with an exclusive elevator. The name of the latter is derived from its position 95 metres above sea level.

The Eiffel Tower has had a rich history of famous events. Theodor Wulf discovered cosmic rays after his research on the site of the tower in 1910. The tower was "sold" twice by a criminal fifteen years later. During WWII the French cut the elevator cables with the aim to force Hitler to climb to the top. He wisely refused. In 1944 the dictator ordered a subordinate to burn down the tower. Thankfully the man disobeyed this order. The aerial located on top of the tower was set there in 1959. The tower marked its 200 millionth visitor in 2002.

The authnetic lift machinery is still preserved on the ground floor of the Eiffel Tower. At the very top you will see the beam and illuminations, consisting of 355 powerful projectors with sodium lamps. The first beam was transmitted in 1999 on New Year's Eve. The first floor of the tower features remarkable art exhibitions, as well as shopping centres and refreshments. You will find a memorable token at the charming gift shops, which will remind you of your exciting visit for the rest of your life. If you want the tower to remember you the same way, just engrave your name at the top deck, where many visitors before you have done likewise.
Name: Eiffel Tower
Address: Champ de Mars
Phone: +33 1 44 11 23 23
Price: 4 - 12EUR
Website: http://www.tour-eiffel.fr/
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