Eiffel's Hidden Luxe
Naveen Kumar
| 01-02-2024
· Information Team
Gustave Eiffel, the mastermind behind the iconic Eiffel Tower, may not be a household name, but his architectural legacy speaks volumes.
The Eiffel Tower, one of the world's most renowned landmarks, is a testament to his ingenuity and has become synonymous with France and global admiration.
While countless visitors flock to Paris to capture the beauty of the Eiffel Tower, few are aware of a hidden gem within the structure—a luxury mini apartment nestled at the tower's pinnacle.
Designed and built by Eiffel himself, this exclusive space is a well-guarded secret, accessible only to Eiffel's closest confidantes.
The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris and a breathtaking spectacle at any time of day offers panoramic views of the city from its elevated vantage point. However, the usual tourist experience can sometimes be marred by crowded observation platforms and selfie enthusiasts.
Eiffel, understanding the desire for solitude amidst the tower's splendor, realized his vision of a private sanctuary in the sky at a lofty height of 285 meters.
The interior of the Eiffel Chalet is a marvel of coziness, adorned with solid wood furniture, soft carpets, and even a piano. Oriental feather-patterned wallpaper and exquisite oil paintings contribute to the apartment's luxury, creating a haven above the bustling city.
Initially, this hidden retreat gained notoriety through the writings of French author Henri Girard. His book, "La Tour Eiffel de Trois Cent Métres," revealed the existence of the private apartment, sparking a surge of requests from affluent Parisians eager to spend a night in this exclusive space.
However, Eiffel refused, wary of turning his haven into a tourist attraction.
The apartment remained sealed and protected for years, preserving its historical charm. Yet, since 2015, the Eiffel Tower administration has opened its doors for guided tours, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience the room as Eiffel inhabited it.
The mini-apartment has been meticulously restored to reflect its original style, with nods to Eiffel's hospitality towards guests like the renowned American inventor Thomas Edison and the elegant presence of his daughter Claire.
While Eiffel's initial reluctance to open the apartment to the public was well-founded, today's tours offer a unique glimpse into the past, allowing visitors to envision the rarified air of life atop the Eiffel Tower.
The once-guarded sanctuary has transitioned from an exclusive retreat to a carefully curated historical experience. It provides a tangible connection to the visionary mind behind the Eiffel Tower and the luminaries who graced its private quarters.
Beyond its architectural brilliance, Gustave Eiffel's Tower conceals a captivating history, notably the discreet luxury apartment atop the iconic structure. Reserved for Eiffel's inner circle, this opulent enclave boasts solid wood furnishings, soft carpets, and a piano, offering an intimate retreat above the city's bustle.
Initially concealed, the apartment gained notoriety through Henri Girard's writings, igniting interest among Parisian elites. While Eiffel resisted the apartment becoming a public attraction, guided tours since 2015 have now granted access to this historical treasure.
Visitors witness a faithful restoration, reliving moments when Eiffel hosted luminaries like Thomas Edison, unveiling a hidden chapter of Parisian allure.