The Eiffel Tower, from afar and close up

I've written about the Eiffel Tower before. I usually see the Eiffel Tower from afar, from up the hill in Montmartre. A hazy, filigree (oh-so-incredibly-well-known) spire in the distance.


So when I cross the river I'm always pleased to get up closer, to appreciate the scale of the Eiffel Tower as it pops up in unexpected places.





I'm not a pigeon fan, but admit to being quite charmed when I saw this pigeon eye-balling the Eiffel Tower.

It's only when you get up very close you realise how incredibly intricate and elaborate the details are on the Eiffel Tower, with swirls and curls.

On the sides of the Tower, just below the first floor platform are the names of 72 famous French scientists in gold letters. Here are a few.

The Tower is painted 'Eiffel Tower Beige', by hand, with brushes! It takes 6-7 years the paint it. Three shades of brown are used to paint the Tower, starting with the darkest shade on the lower level, gradually getting lighter at each level above. The lower level looks like it must have recently been painted.

I love these giant metal pulleys, used for hauling the lifts up and down between the ground and first floor.

And finally, where do you think I took this photo from, Photoshop was not involved. Hint - the clue is in the neon light.


More photos of th Eiffel Tower can be seen here and here