The Eiffel Tower, an iconic symbol of France, has a rich history and fascinating facts that have sustained its popularity over the years. Designed and engineered by Gustave Eiffel, the tower was built as the entrance arch to the 1889 Exposition Universelle, a World's Fair marking the centennial celebration of the French Revolution. Construction began in 1887 and finished in 1889, taking just over two years to complete. Standing at a staggering height of 324 meters (including antennas), it was the tallest man-made structure in the world until the completion of the Chrysler Building in New York in 1930. The Eiffel Tower is made of iron and weighs around 10,100 tons. It consists of three levels accessible to the public. The exterior of the tower is a marvel of engineering prowess. Its lattice structure, which is both functional and aesthetically pleasing, is composed of 18,038 individual iron pieces. It's painted every seven years to prevent rust, requiring 60 metric tons of paint. The color of the paint, known as "Eiffel Tower Brown," gradually gets lighter from the bottom to the top to complement the Parisian sky. The tower is also adorned with 20,000 light bulbs that make it sparkle every night, a sight that has captivated millions. Inside, the Eiffel Tower is equally impressive. The first level houses a transparent floor and a restaurant named "58 Tour Eiffel." The second level also contains a restaurant, the Michelin-starred "Le Jules Verne." The third level is the summit, accessible by lift, and it boasts spectacular views of the city. The top level also contains a small apartment that Gustave Eiffel used for entertaining guests, which is now a museum. The Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited paid monuments in the world, a testament to its enduring appeal. Over the years, it has witnessed numerous historical events, including being saved from destruction by Hitler during World War II because of its usefulness as a radio transmission tower. Today, it remains an enduring symbol of human ingenuity and a must-see for any visitor to Paris.