The Eiffel Tower: Still Pretty Cool

the official site of the Eiffel Tower
(English/UK version)

"...The end of the XIXth century saw a considerable number of inventions that have revolutionized our lives, from the telephone to car racing and the vaccine against rabies. At the time, Jules Verne was writing his futuristic novels, France was building a colonial empire, trade was prosperous and the industrial revolution was in full swing. Things were moving, everything was changing. This period, sometimes called 'the spring of technology', was a time of creative effervescence, crowned by Gustave Eiffel's 'Grand Iron Lady'. The 'A' over the Champ-de-Mars symbolized the beginning of a major movement that has continued to this very day...."
(From "All you need to know about the Eiffel Tower," on the official site of the Eiffel Tower)

The Eiffel Tower is possibly the most recognizable landmark in Paris. It was also, when it was built, one of the world's great technological / engineering marvels. One thing I particularly appreciated about the *.pdf-format document I quoted, above, was the glimpse at 19th century history, culture and technology. It's good, I think, to be reminded now and then of what the 'good old days' were actually like.

Take rabies, for example. 'Rabies shots' are no fun: but now people in many parts of the world don't have to die if they're bitten by an infected animal.

All things considered, I'd rather live now.

But that's another topic.

Back to that landmark of Paris and its website.

It's visually impressive, and fairly 'intuitive' to navigate. A refreshing combination. Some of the main sections are: News; Practical Information; Children's Corner; Documentation (That's where I found that 'all you need to know' document); The Tower At Leisure (includes a virtual tour and wall paper); Professional Services; Employment Opportunities.

And, of course, there's quite a bit about how to get there and what to do when you do.