The iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris has closed its summit to visitors amid a severe heat wave affecting France and various parts of Europe. This decision prioritizes the comfort and safety of both guests and staff, as stated on the attraction’s official website.
“Due to the current heat wave, the Eiffel Tower is taking measures to ensure the comfort and safety of our visitors and staff,” the announcement detailed. The closure spans the entire day on both Tuesday and Wednesday.
While access to the first and second floors remains available, officials are advising those without pre-booked tickets to consider postponing their trips. Temperatures in Paris are projected to soar to 36 degrees Celsius this week, with certain regions in southern France hitting a staggering 40 degrees. Consequently, the French government has issued high-level heat wave alerts across 84 departments.
Historical significance of the Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower, completed in 1889 for the World’s Fair in Paris, was originally designed as a temporary installation. However, it rapidly became a national emblem and is now celebrated as one of the most-visited monuments globally.
Political responses to the crisis
On Monday, Marine Le Pen, a prominent figure in the French far-right, criticized the government’s response to the heat crisis. She urged for “a major air conditioning equipment plan” and expressed concerns that ordinary citizens are left to suffer in extreme temperatures while “so-called French elites” remain in climate-controlled settings.
Moreover, the heat wave is affecting other renowned European landmarks, with the Atomium in Brussels, Belgium, also reducing its visiting hours to cope with the extreme temperatures.