Eiffel Tower, 120, Gets a Facelift
Monumental Makeover Includes New Restaurant and Exhibition
Twenty-five painters began repainting the tower at the end of March, using a special brown paint that is manufactured exclusively for the world’s most-visited monument. The task is expected to take 22 months to complete.
Altitude 95 Becomes 58 Tour Eiffel
Already finished is the remodeling of the former Altitude 95 Restaurant on the tower’s first level. The new 58 Tour Eiffel restaurant opened early in April under the direction of Chef Alain Ducasse, who also oversees the Jules Verne restaurant on the second level.
Some early reviews of 58 Tour Eiffel’s lunch service have been unflattering, with diners comparing the process to eating at McDonald’s. A hamburger with French fries will set you back €15 (about $21).
On the other hand, if you are willing to pay €125 (about $175) for the premier dinner service, some travelers have reported a magnificent dining experience. This ensures a table with a spectacular view, a goblet of champagne, foie gras with fig marmalade, grilled vegetables, veal with a macaroni gratin, chocolate pie and coffee, a bottle of wine for two, and mineral water. There are some other menu options based on whether or not you have at least 10 members of your party.
Special Exhibits Mark Tower’s 120 Years
In honor of the 120th birthday of the “Iron Lady,” a special exhibit entitled “Tales of the Eiffel Tower” is running through the end of the year. The interactive displays can be found on the stairs and the first level, including a theater under a large tent that has been set up on the first level overlooking the Champ de Mars.
From July 20-August 23, the Gustave Eiffel Room on the first level will present a portion of the Josette Rispal collection. The collection features photos, engravings, posters, dishware, and other objects with an Eiffel Tower theme.
Elevator Renovation Work Continues
During June, the tower’s east elevators are undergoing renovation work. The West Pillar elevator has been closed since late November for a major technological overhaul. Access to the upper levels of the tower is therefore limited to the North Pillar elevator or the South Pillar stairs until approximately June 25.
The West Elevator renovation includes replacing the oil used in its hydraulic system with what the tower’s operating company calls only a “more ecological fluid.” The elevators also will be able to carry 110 passengers at a time instead of the present 92-person limit, while using less electricity. This, of course, has necessitated the replacement of the existing cabs with new ones.
Eiffel Tower at night
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