What was the number of individuals involved in the construction of the Eiffel tower?

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By Caroline Lascom

The Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. Located in Paris, France, it stands at 324 meters tall and is made of wrought iron. It was named after Gustave Eiffel, the engineer who designed and oversaw its construction. The tower was built to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution and was completed in 1889.

The Design and Planning of the Eiffel Tower

The design of the Eiffel Tower was the work of Gustave Eiffel’s company, Eiffel et Cie. Gustave Eiffel himself was not the primary designer of the tower, but rather the project manager. The tower’s design was a joint effort between Eiffel’s engineers, Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier, and the architect, Stephen Sauvestre. The tower’s unique shape was created using mathematical calculations, and the team used wind tunnel experiments to ensure that the structure would be stable.

The Construction of the Eiffel Tower Commences

Construction of the Eiffel Tower began on January 28, 1887. It was a massive undertaking, as the tower was to be built in just two years. The construction site was busy with workers laying the foundations, digging trenches, and erecting the tower’s four pillars. The construction materials were transported to the site by horse-drawn carts and trains.

The Workforce of the Eiffel Tower Construction

The construction of the Eiffel Tower required a large workforce. It is estimated that over 300 workers were needed on-site at any given time. The workforce was made up of a variety of skilled and unskilled individuals, including carpenters, masons, blacksmiths, and laborers. Some of the workers were recruited from overseas, and they worked long hours, often in difficult and dangerous conditions.

The Role of Engineers in Eiffel Tower Construction

The role of engineers in the construction of the Eiffel Tower was crucial. Gustave Eiffel’s team of engineers played a key role in the design and construction of the tower. They were responsible for ensuring that the tower was structurally sound and could withstand the wind. The team used innovative techniques, such as the use of hydraulic jacks, to lift the tower’s heavy iron components into place. The engineers also designed the elevators that would transport visitors to the top of the tower.

The Use of Innovative Techniques in Eiffel Tower Construction

The construction of the Eiffel Tower was a technological marvel of its time. The use of innovative techniques, such as the hydraulic jacks mentioned earlier, made the construction process more efficient and allowed for the tower to be built in just two years. The tower’s unique shape was also achieved through the use of mathematical calculations and wind tunnel experiments. The use of elevators to transport visitors to the top of the tower was also an innovative feature of the tower’s construction.

How Long Did the Eiffel Tower Take to Build?

The construction of the Eiffel Tower took just over two years. Construction began on January 28, 1887, and the tower was completed on March 31, 1889. The speed of construction was a remarkable achievement considering the size and complexity of the structure.

The Cost of Building the Eiffel Tower

The cost of building the Eiffel Tower was 7.8 million francs, which is roughly equivalent to 40 million euros or 50 million US dollars in today’s currency. The majority of the cost went towards the materials and labor required to construct the tower.

The Completion of the Eiffel Tower

The completion of the Eiffel Tower was a significant milestone for the workers and engineers who had been involved in its construction. The tower’s four pillars were joined at the top, and the final components were put in place on March 31, 1889.

The Inauguration of the Eiffel Tower

The Eiffel Tower was inaugurated on March 31, 1889, during the Exposition Universelle. At the time, the tower was the tallest structure in the world and became an instant symbol of France. Visitors from around the globe flocked to the tower to take in its breathtaking views and ride its elevators to the top.

The Eiffel Tower Today: A Global Icon

Today, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. It is a symbol of France and an icon of engineering. The tower attracts millions of visitors each year and has become a global icon of architecture and innovation.

Conclusion: The Human Effort Behind the Eiffel Tower

The construction of the Eiffel Tower was a remarkable achievement of human effort and innovation. From the design and planning to the construction and inauguration, the project required the hard work and dedication of countless individuals. The tower stands today as a testament to their ingenuity and hard work, and it continues to inspire people around the world.

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Caroline Lascom

Caroline is a seasoned travel writer and editor, passionate about exploring the world. She currently edits captivating travel content at TravelAsker, having previously contributed her exceptional skills to well-known travel guidebooks like Frommer’s, Rough Guides, Footprint, and Fodor’s. Caroline holds a bachelor's degree in Latin American studies from Manchester University (UK) and a master's degree in literature from Northwestern University. Having traveled to 67 countries, her journeys have fueled her love for storytelling and sharing the world's wonders.

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