CURIOUS FACTS CONTEST #5 - 10 interesting facts about Eiffel Tower

Eiffel tower, one of the seven wonders of the modern world is also one of the most iconic structures of all time. The tower, situated in Paris is one of the most iconic buildings in the world, a landmark unlike any other; it is impossible to picture France without the baronial tower standing with pride in your mind.

Here we are going to read about some interesting facts related to the Eiffel tower.

1) The Eiffel tower was built as an entrance arch for the world fair in 1899 and was meant to be taken down after that.(thank God, it didn't happen)

2)The Eiffel tower is made of iron and stands around 320 meters and weighs about 10000 tons.

3)The Eiffel tower sways was almost 6 inches in the wind and moves up to seven inches in the sun due to the expansion of its iron from the sun’s heat.

4) Around 50 Tons of paint are required every seven years to paint the Eiffel tower and protect it from rust.

5) The tower comprises 18,000 metallic parts, attached together with 2.5 million screws, bolts, and rivets.

6) A number of aviators have flown aircrafts under the arches of the tower. In 1926, a pilot named Leon Collet was killed after a failed attempt.

7) In 1960 Charles de Gaulle proposed temporarily dismantling the tower and sending it to Montreal for Expo 67. The plan was rejected.

8) Around 20,000 light bulbs are used to light the Eiffel tower to give it a sparkling view every night.

9) After the seizure of France, Hitler ordered Dietrich von Choltitz, the military governor of Paris, to demolish the tower, along with other parts of the city. Thankfully the general refused as he thought that the tower was too much special for the city.

10) There are more than 30 replicas of the Eiffel tower around the world as those who got fascinated by it tried to build miniature versions and even full-sized versions.