Ifah SakinahThe mere mention of Paris conjures images of the Eiffel Tower. That’s because the iconic landmark has become a distinctive symbol of the city of love. Tourists from all over flock to catch sight of the cultural attraction and to take in sweeping views of the French capital from the summit. As a matter of fact, almost seven million people visit the Eiffel Tower every year.
Image credit: Nikolay Kovalenko | Colin Viessmann
For those yearning to pay the city on the Seine a visit post-pandemic, you’ll be in for a treat when you make your way to the architectural marvel. The Eiffel Tower is getting an incredible makeover in time for the 2024 Olympics, slated to take place in Paris.
With a gleaming new shade of gold, the tower standing at 324 metres tall will shine in all its glory. Plus, it will make for a stunning backdrop for the triathlon and open water swimming events.
The paint job to give the edifice a distinct golden hue will cost a whopping €50 million (SGD 80 million). It’s the most extensive makeover since the Eiffel Tower was erected as the entrance to the 1889 World’s Fair.
Also read: There’s Actually a Secret Apartment in the Eiffel Tower
Eiffel Tower’s makeover
Image credit: Anthony DELANOIX
As part of the Eiffel Tower’s makeover, previous layers of paint (19 to be exact!) will be scrapped off to make way for a fresh coat of yellow-brown shade that Gustave Eiffel initially had in mind.
It will be a painstaking procedure considering the fact that presence of lead imposes a health hazard for crews. As a result, strict protocols have to be in place to ensure their safety.
Moreover, the paint job will require 60 tons (or 54,431 kilograms) of paint to give the tower a fresh face.
The work of transforming the monument is already underway. It is scheduled to complete in 2022 – well ahead of the 2024 international sports festival.
Colours of the Eiffel Tower over the years
Image credit: Denys Nevozhai
It may come as a surprise but the Eiffel Tower has sported various colours in its 130-years history.
- Reddish-brown in 1889
- Ochre-brown in 1892
- 5 shades of yellow in 1899
- Yellow-brown from 1907 to 1947
- Reddish-brown from 1954 to 1961
- Signature shade of ‘Eiffel Tower’ brown since 1968
Also read: Paris Will Officially Redesign Champs-Élysées Into a Garden!
With the Eiffel Tower getting a brand-new look, it beckons a visit once travel resumes. You’ll certainly fall in Lourve with the romantic city all over again!
