On March 31, 1889, workers riveted the last of more than 18,000 iron pieces into place to complete construction of the Eiffel Tower. To inaugurate the magnificent metallic structure, Alexandre-Gustave Eiffel, the tower’s designer, climbed its 1,710 steps and unfurled a French tricolor flag from its pinnacle. Explore 10 surprising facts about the Parisian icon.

• The Eiffel Tower was once yellow.
• It was built to celebrate the centennial of the French Revolution.
• For four decades it was the world’s tallest structure.
• The Eiffel Tower was once the world’s largest billboard.
• Eiffel designed part of another famous landmark.
• Parisian artists petitioned against the “monstrous” structure.
• Radio saved the Eiffel Tower from destruction.
• The Eiffel Tower contributed to the capture of Mata Hari.
• The tower housed a scientific laboratory.
• Daredevils have died attempting aerial feats at the tower.

[저작권자ⓒ 이코노미세계. 무단전재-재배포 금지]