Imagine having the opportunity to visit the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris, France, just before the world was struck by the devastating pandemic. This is the story of an unforgettable adventure, where the journey itself was as remarkable as the destination.
Driving from Brussels, Belgium to Paris, we embarked on a road trip that lasted around 4-5 hours. Armed with nothing but a downloaded offline map from Google, we relied on technology to guide us through the unfamiliar roads. Since we didn’t have access to data during that time, I had downloaded maps of both Belgium and Paris, including popular destinations such as Disneyland in France.
With the only tip we received from my brother-in-law being the existence of an affordable parking area near the Eiffel Tower, we found ourselves parking quite a distance away from the famous landmark. However, this turned out to be a blessing in disguise as it allowed us to explore the historical buildings and sites surrounding the Eiffel Tower.
“Embark on a captivating photo walk through the enchanting streets of Paris, where every turn reveals a rich tapestry of historical buildings. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral, immerse yourself in the timeless beauty and architectural splendor of the City of Lights.“
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Little did we know that Paris would surprise us with a sudden windstorm that afternoon. Being ill-prepared for such weather, as we believed it was summertime in Europe, we lacked the necessary thick jackets to keep us warm. Nevertheless, determined to make the most of our visit, we quickly snapped a photo near the Eiffel Tower and began walking back, passing by other captivating historical places along the way.
The Eiffel Tower, a marvel of engineering, captivated us with its grandeur. The esplanade at the tower’s base was adorned with four massive pillars, which bore the weight of the entire 10,100-ton monument. Emile Nouguier and Maurice Koechlin, engineers working under Gustave Eiffel, meticulously designed the tower using mathematical principles to ensure its stability.
The ingenious design of the tower’s framework, with its well-distributed weight, allows it to withstand even the most extreme winds. At the ground level, the pressure exerted on the structure is a mere four kilograms per square centimeter, comparable to the weight distribution of a normal-sized adult sitting on a chair.
As we stood in awe of the towering structure, the gigantic pillars made an indelible impression. Surprisingly spacious, these pillars accommodated staircases and elevators, facilitating the movement of visitors within the tower. Their presence added to the sense of grandeur and made us appreciate the meticulous planning that went into creating this architectural masterpiece.
Although our encounter with the Eiffel Tower was brief, it left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. It was a miracle to have the chance to witness one of the most popular landmarks in the world, an experience we will cherish forever.
Visiting the Eiffel Tower reminded us of the power of human ingenuity and the enduring allure of iconic landmarks. It is a testament to the indomitable spirit of exploration and the wonders that await those who venture beyond their comfort zones. Our journey to the Eiffel Tower was not only a physical one but also a journey of discovery, reminding us of the beauty and resilience found in unexpected places.
As we bid farewell to the Eiffel Tower, we left with a sense of gratitude for the memories we had created. This adventure serves as a reminder that even in the face of unforeseen challenges, the world remains full of extraordinary wonders waiting to be explored.
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Photos by: Kit Pilla
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Camera: Canon M50 (Canon 24-105L F4)
