Eiffel Tower Dimensions

Many consider the Eiffel Tower as a masterpiece in technological building construction. It was built to commemorate the French Revolution and is one of the main tourist attractions in France. Many have compared it to other structural masterpieces such as St. Peter’s Basilica and the Great Pyramid in Giza. It makes people wonder about the Eiffel Tower dimensions.

Design Considerations

Over a hundred designs were submitted and considered before the tower was built. Many factors came into play including the construction material to be used, maintenance, wind considerations, aesthetic considerations, and the Eiffel Tower dimensions. In the end it was Alexendre-Gustave Eiffel’s design that got the award from the Paris World’s Fair Committee.

One would simply just be astounded if you consider the Eiffel Tower dimensions. The tower stands at a commanding height of 1,069 feet or 320.75 meters. This colossal height is the equivalent of a building that stands 105 stories high. Even today, it still stands as the tallest man made structure in Paris. Some doubt the claim, however, the way the tower is positioned deceives the naked eye.

The Eiffel Tower dimensions and its location deceives one’s eyes quite well since there are no other really tall structures in close proximity to it. It is easy to doubt that this tower stands taller than what you can see in Paris. Another factor that lends to this illusion is the fact that the public is only allowed to access levels reaching up to 896 feet, which is roughly about 89 stories.

If ever you were allowed to access the tower’s summit you would be able to view as far away as Chartres in a clear day. The tower’s base is a square area measuring 100 meters on one side. If one were to stand at the very center of the area of the base and would be able to see all the way to up to 38 stories.

The design was criticized when the tower was built while others were shocked by what seems to be quite a daring shape. The tower’s engineers were well-known bridge builders and took every consideration regarding the subtle wind forces that can bring the tower down. The Eiffel Tower dimensions and shape is a product of expert mathematical calculation that resolves wind resistance. As a result of this genius, the Eiffel Tower sways about six or seven centimeters in the wind.

Recognizing the Masterpiece

In spite of criticism early in its history, the design of this open lattice tower constructed out of wrought iron is recognized as a masterpiece in technological construction. It has since become France’s global icon. Today, it stands as one of the very recognizable structures in the world.