Early Controversy
When the Eiffel Tower was first erected, many Parisians viewed it as an eyesore and an architectural monstrosity. Critics included notable figures like Guy de Maupassant, the famous French writer, who reportedly ate lunch at the tower's restaurant simply to avoid looking at it. Some of the objections were based on the tower's industrial look, which seemed out of place in the historic, classical architecture of Paris at the time.
The original plan was for the tower to be dismantled after 20 years, as specified in its building permit. Eiffel had argued that the tower could serve as a scientific instrument, and he believed its height and design could make it useful for experiments in meteorology, physics, and telecommunications.
Staying Power
Despite the initial opposition, the Eiffel Tower gradually gained acceptance, especially after it proved to be a useful tool for scientific purposes. It became an important site for radio transmissions, and in the early 20th century, it played a key role in the development of wireless communication.
By the time the 20-year period for dismantling the tower arrived in 1910, the Eiffel Tower had become such a beloved and important symbol of Paris that the government decided to keep it. Over time, it was recognized as a monument of national pride and a symbol of modern engineering and French ingenuity.
Today’s Legacy
Had it been demolished, the Eiffel Tower would never have become the world-renowned landmark we know today. It attracts millions of visitors each year and stands as one of the most recognizable structures in the world, often representing the city of Paris itself. Ironically, it is now considered an architectural masterpiece and one of the most important symbols of France's cultural and historical heritage.