Paris’s iconic Eiffel Tower, one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, had to be evacuated today, December 24, due to a sudden fire incident. About 1200 tourists were evacuated in this accident.
How did the fire start?
According to French authorities, flames were first seen in the elevator shaft located between the first and second floors of the tower.
- Firefighters took immediate action to control the fire.
- According to preliminary investigation, the cause of the fire is said to be overheating device near the lift cable.
- Police sources shared information about the incident from Boulevard Voltaire.
Eiffel Tower: World’s leading tourist spot
According to the Roadgenius statistics database, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the world.
- On an average 15,000 to 25,000 tourists come here every day.
- It has become a symbol of France and Paris.
Such incidents have happened before also
This is not the first time that the Eiffel Tower has caught fire.
- In January 1956, a fire in the tower’s television transmission room caused major damage.
- Such incidents underline the importance of its maintenance and protection.
History and construction of the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower, located in Paris, the capital of France, is a metal structure, which is considered a wonderful example of 19th century engineering.
- It was mainly designed and built by Gustave Eiffel and his company.
- It was constructed between 1887 and 1889 and was designed for the 1889 Paris World’s Fair (Exposition Universelle).
Permanent symbol of Paris from a temporary structure
- The Eiffel Tower was initially designed as a temporary structure, which was later to be demolished.
- But its immense popularity and cultural significance made it a permanent part of Paris.