The iconic Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Parisian elegance and a magnet for tourists worldwide, remained inaccessible to visitors on Tuesday, as a worker’s strike persisted, with authorities cautioning that the closure might endure.
A notification prominently displayed on the homepage of the renowned Parisian landmark urged prospective visitors to consult the website for updates before planning their visit. This closure marked the third instance in the past two months, and the second consecutive day, where the Eiffel Tower stood closed, as reported by the Associated Press.
Officials underscored the possibility of extending the closure into Wednesday.
“On account of a strike initiated by a portion of the Eiffel Tower staff, the Eiffel Tower is presently closed,” the website’s announcement on Monday elucidated. “Visitors holding e-tickets for today are advised to monitor their email. We apologize for any inconvenience. Owing to an ongoing strike notice, the operation of the Eiffel Tower may face disruptions on February 21. Kindly refer to the website for updates before embarking on your journey.”
Serving as the focal point of the 1889 World’s Fair, the renowned attraction customarily welcomes visitors every day, drawing an average of 6 million tourists annually, with approximately 75 percent hailing from overseas, according to tower authorities.
In addition to Tuesday’s closure, the tower remained off-limits to visitors on Monday, as well as during a day over the Christmas and New Year’s holidays due to labor strikes pertaining to contract negotiations, as highlighted by the AP.
While the ascent to the summit of the Eiffel Tower remains elusive at present, the monument’s grandeur still dominates the Paris skyline, visible from nearly every corner of the city. Tourists can appreciate its splendor from various vantage points such as the Parc de Belleville, during a canal cruise, or from the Jardins du Trocadero, situated just across the Seine from the tower.
The strike action at the Eiffel Tower unfolds mere months before Paris is slated to host the Olympics, commencing on July 26. The impending arrival of the games has triggered a surge in hotel rates and sparked a fervor among travelers vying for tickets.