Did you know Paris’s glittering Eiffel Tower started as a temporary exhibit? Built as the entrance arch for the 1889 World Expo—the ultimate flex of France’s industrial power—it was meant to last just 20 years. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, this 300-meter marvel became the world’s tallest structure, wowing crowds with its iron latticework and daring engineering. Talk about a glow-up!
Originally protested by artists who called it a 'monstrosity,' the Tower now welcomes over 7 million visitors yearly. Its survival? A testament to humanity’s knack for turning bold ideas into timeless symbols. Fun fact: Radio antennas added later saved it from demolition—innovation on innovation!
Fast-forward to 2024, and World Expos still spark architectural surprises. This year’s event in Osaka, Japan, promises futuristic pavilions—who knows which design might become tomorrow’s Eiffel Tower?
Reference(s):
cgtn.com