The Eiffel Tower, one of the most famous landmarks in the world, was constructed between 1887 and 1889 in Paris, France. Official construction began on January 28, 1887, and the tower was completed on March 31, 1889. It officially opened to the public on May 6, 1889, as the centerpiece of the Exposition Universelle, which celebrated the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution.
Understanding when the Eiffel Tower was constructed also helps us understand why it was built, how it was engineered, and why it remains one of the greatest achievements in architectural history.
📜 Why Construction Began in 1887
In preparation for the 1889 World’s Fair, the French government organized a competition to design a monumental structure that would symbolize progress and modern engineering. The goal was to create something extraordinary that would impress visitors from around the world.
Engineer Gustave Eiffel and his company won the competition. Although Eiffel’s name is attached to the tower, the initial design was created by his engineers Maurice Koechlin and Émile Nouguier, with architectural refinements by Stephen Sauvestre.
Once approved, construction officially started in January 1887 at the Champ de Mars in Paris.
🏗️ Construction Timeline (1887–1889)
🔹 1887 – Foundation Work Begins
The first stage of construction focused on building strong foundations. Because the tower would be the tallest structure in the world at the time, engineers needed deep and stable foundations. Work on the concrete foundations took several months, especially on the side near the River Seine.
By the end of 1887, the four massive iron legs of the tower were beginning to rise and curve inward.
🔹 1888 – Iron Framework Rises
During 1888, the main iron structure was assembled. More than 18,000 prefabricated iron pieces were manufactured in Eiffel’s factory and transported to the site. Each piece was carefully designed and measured to ensure precision.
Workers used approximately 2.5 million rivets to secure the structure. Despite the tower’s height, safety measures were surprisingly advanced for the time, and very few accidents occurred during construction.
By late 1888, the second platform was completed, and Parisians began to realize the tower would dramatically change the city skyline.
🔹 1889 – Completion and Opening
In March 1889, the Eiffel Tower was officially completed. On March 31, Gustave Eiffel climbed to the top of the tower and placed the French flag at its peak.
The tower opened to the public in May 1889 for the Exposition Universelle. During the fair, millions of visitors came to see the incredible new structure.
📏 How Tall Was It When Constructed?
When construction finished in 1889, the Eiffel Tower stood at 300 meters (984 feet) tall. This made it the tallest man-made structure in the world at that time. It held this record until 1930, when the Chrysler Building in New York City surpassed it.
Today, with antennas added to the top, the tower reaches approximately 330 meters.
⚖️ Public Reaction During Construction
When construction began in 1887, many artists and intellectuals protested. They believed the iron tower would ruin the beauty of Paris. A famous protest letter signed by prominent writers described it as a “giant black smokestack.”
However, once the tower was completed in 1889, opinions began to change. Visitors admired its modern design and breathtaking views of Paris. Over time, the Eiffel Tower transformed from a controversial project into a beloved national symbol.
⏳ Was It Meant to Be Permanent?
Although constructed between 1887 and 1889, the Eiffel Tower was originally intended to stand for only 20 years. The agreement allowed the city of Paris to dismantle it in 1909.
However, its usefulness in scientific experiments and radio communication saved it from demolition. The tower became an important site for wireless telegraphy, which proved valuable during World War I.
Because of its practical benefits, the government decided to preserve it permanently.
🔧 Engineering Achievements of the Construction Period
The construction of the Eiffel Tower marked a turning point in modern engineering. Several innovative techniques were used:
- Precision prefabrication of iron components
- Mathematical calculations to ensure wind resistance
- Hydraulic jacks to align the legs perfectly
- Advanced safety measures for workers
The tower’s curved shape was carefully designed to withstand strong winds. Even today, the structure can sway slightly in extreme weather without damage.
🌍 Impact After Construction
Since its completion in 1889, the Eiffel Tower has become one of the most visited monuments in the world. Millions of tourists climb its stairs or take elevators to the observation decks every year.
It has also played important roles in communication, science, and even military operations. During World War I, radio signals transmitted from the tower helped the French military intercept enemy communications.
Today, the Eiffel Tower is illuminated nightly, creating one of the most recognizable cityscapes in the world.
📊 Quick Construction Facts
- Construction started: January 28, 1887
- Construction completed: March 31, 1889
- Opened to public: May 6, 1889
- Total construction time: 2 years, 2 months, and 5 days
- Original height: 300 meters
- Iron pieces used: 18,000+
- Rivets used: Approximately 2.5 million
🏆 Why the Construction Period Matters
Knowing when the Eiffel Tower was constructed helps us appreciate its historical context. Built during a time of rapid industrial growth, it represented the power of science and engineering in the late 19th century.
The period between 1887 and 1889 marked not just the creation of a building, but the birth of a global icon. What started as a temporary exhibition structure became a permanent symbol of France and one of the most recognized landmarks on Earth.