Paris’ Eiffel Tower Reopens to Visitors Following Worker Strike

The Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. (Photo Credit: Adobe Stock/Cavan for Adobe)

Paris’ iconic Eiffel Tower has once again opened its gates to visitors following a six-day closure, which was prompted by worker strikes. Employees were advocating for improved maintenance of the historic monument, which has begun to exhibit traces of rust, alongside salary increases.   

In a statement released by the operator of the 330-meter (1,083-foot) tower, it was confirmed that an agreement had been reached with the unions representing the workers. Management has promised to invest an “ambitious €380 million (roughly $412 million) investment by 2031” into renovations of the 135-year-old tower. 

Furthermore, salary negotiations—incited by demands by the striking employees for wages proportionate to the revenues generated from ticket sales—commenced this week and are expected to conclude next month, according to the Associated Press.  

The world-famous landmark is poised to feature prominently in the upcoming Paris Olympic Games, scheduled from July 26 to August 11, as well as the ensuing Paralympic Games. Notably, the medals for both the Olympic and Paralympic events in Paris will incorporate pieces sourced from a hexagonal chunk of iron extracted from the emblematic monument.

The Eiffel Tower normally remains open for visitors every day of the year. However, last week’s closure marks the second recent instance in which it has been made inaccessible to the public due to protests. Last year, amidst widespread demonstrations across France against proposed reforms to the country's pension system, the Eiffel Tower was closed to visitors for a total of 10 days.

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