France All-clear for Eiffel Tower rust problem
Contrary to repeated fears, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is not threatened by rust. "It is in incredible condition," said the president of the Eiffel Tower operating company, Jean-François Martins, shortly before the completion of an extensive renovation of the Parisian landmark.
29.04.2025, 17:12
SDA
"The tower has enormous solidity." During the ongoing painting work, all of the previous 19 layers of paint were removed in one area and were taken by surprise. "The metal is in perfect condition." Gustave Eiffel had chosen very good material to build the tower.
Just over a year ago, it was not the first time that there had been a stir about an alleged rust problem at the Parisian landmark. Workers even went on strike for a few days in order to get more money for the tower's maintenance.
Millions invested in painting and a new elevator
Work on the 20th coat of paint since the tower was built is now entering the home straight and is due to be completed in 2026. The painting, which began in 2019 and was interrupted by the coronavirus pandemic and then made more difficult due to old layers of paint containing lead, will cost around 80 million euros. One of the three visitor elevators was also renovated as faithfully as possible for around 58 million euros.
While the landmark itself has been spruced up again, the project to reinstall a replica of the Olympic rings on the tower has stalled. Shortly after the end of the Summer Olympics last summer, when the original Olympic rings were removed from the tower, Paris was determined to install a replica in their place - until the start of the next Summer Games in Los Angeles in 2028. However, there is currently no timetable for this, but the project has not been canceled, according to the head of the Eiffel Tower operating company.
High satisfaction and less crime
Meanwhile, efforts to improve the welcome for visitors to the Eiffel Tower are bearing fruit. According to a survey, 96% of guests are satisfied with their visit, compared to 81% in 2019. There is also a very high level of satisfaction when it comes to security in and around the Eiffel Tower. Thefts and aggression there are on the decline, partly because the police are showing an increased presence, said Eiffel Tower boss Martins.
Last year, 6.3 million people from 150 countries visited the Parisian landmark. After the French and Americans, people from Germany make up the third largest group of visitors.
