The Eiffel Tower is the tallest structure in Paris, and reigned for 40 years as the tallest in the world. The metal lattice-work, formed with very pure structural iron, makes the tower both extremely light and able to withstand tremendous wind forces. One of the reasons that standing atop the Eiffel Tower feels unique is that the structure is open to the wind, making it seem that one is not actually inside a building. This open structure also allows visitors to look "through" the tower - to stand in one part of the tower and look through the latticed wall or floor to another part.
The Eiffel Tower was originally built for the 1889 World Fair, in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution. During construction, it was considered an eyesore by the French, but the criticism was silenced upon completion of the the building. Today, a trip to Paris is not complete without a visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower.
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