Behind the book blog series - CAROUSEL
Paris in 1889: Unveiling the Majestic Eiffel Tower
As an author I am often asked how I get inspiration for my books, and in truth my inspiration comes from the real world. Be that a place, an event or a moment in history. When it comes to my novels I am always drawn to the past, and moments in history I love to learn more about. For CAROUSEL, this book came out of the idea of wanting to know more about the Eiffel Tower, and through the writing of this book I discovered so much history about the tower that I never knew before. Of course I didn't want my story to be about the tower's construction, but I did like the idea of setting my characters in and around that time frame.
The research part of my book writing is something I have always enjoyed doing, and so for this "Behind the book" series I thought I would you some more information about what inspired me for each of my books.
In the annals of architectural marvels, few structures have captivated the world's imagination quite like the Eiffel Tower. Standing tall and proud at the heart of Paris, this iconic landmark has become synonymous with the City of Light. However, to truly appreciate the magnificence of this engineering masterpiece, we must travel back in time to the year 1889, when Paris was abuzz with excitement and anticipation for the grand opening of the Eiffel Tower.
The Paris Exposition of 1889:
The year 1889 marked the centennial celebration of the French Revolution, a momentous occasion that called for a remarkable exhibition showcasing France's achievements in science, industry, and the arts. Known as the Paris Exposition, this grand event was a global spectacle designed to dazzle the masses.
The Visionary Architect:
To symbolize the prowess of French engineering, Gustave Eiffel, an accomplished structural engineer, was commissioned to design a centerpiece for the exposition. Eiffel's vision was bold and audacious—an iron lattice tower that would stand as the tallest man-made structure in the world.
The Construction:
Construction of the Eiffel Tower began in 1887, and it was a monumental undertaking that pushed the boundaries of engineering. The tower's design, consisting of four lattice-like iron legs connected at the top, allowed for stability while minimizing the amount of material needed.
The assembly process involved the use of more than 18,000 individual iron pieces, precisely crafted and meticulously joined together. The intricate network of rivets formed a delicate framework that would support the tower's immense weight. It was a testament to the ingenuity and skill of the engineers and workers involved in the project.
The Unveiling:
On March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tower was finally completed and stood proud at a staggering height of 330 meters (1,080 feet). The anticipation surrounding the tower's opening was palpable, and people from all walks of life eagerly awaited the grand unveiling.
As the gates of the Paris Exposition opened, visitors flocked to the site, marveling at the sheer scale and intricacy of the tower. Gustave Eiffel himself ascended the tower, planting the French flag at its pinnacle as a symbol of national pride and accomplishment.
The Tower's Legacy:
While initial public reception of the Eiffel Tower was mixed, it quickly grew to become an emblem of Parisian identity. Its graceful iron lattice became an architectural marvel, admired for its elegance and structural integrity. As the years passed, the Eiffel Tower became an indispensable part of the Parisian skyline, an enduring symbol of the city's romance, creativity, and resilience.
Today, the Eiffel Tower stands as one of the most visited monuments in the world. It continues to enchant millions of visitors each year, offering breathtaking panoramic views of Paris, housing exquisite restaurants and observation decks, and serving as an iconic backdrop for countless photographs and cherished memories.
Conclusion:
The year 1889 marked a defining moment in the history of Paris—the unveiling of the Eiffel Tower. Through its audacious design and innovative engineering, the tower became an architectural masterpiece that embodied the spirit of a city and captivated the world's imagination. Today, standing tall and timeless, the Eiffel Tower remains a testament to the power of human creativity, a symbol of
Paris's allure, and a reminder of the magic that can be achieved when vision and ingenuity come together.
