Today, July 26, the 2024 Summer Olympics will open in Paris, France. An estimated 10,500 athletes from more than 200 countries will compete in this year’s Games, bringing along their coaches, family members and supporters to the City of Light. Altogether, approximately 15 million visitors, including 2 million from abroad, are expected to attend the Olympic and Paralympic events held between July 26 and August 11 and August 28 and September 8, respectively. With all these tourists, the Eiffel Tower is sure to see some serious traffic — and its elevators will be ready.
The Eiffel Tower is served by three elevators (north, east and west pillars) dedicated to visitors, one electric elevator used by customers of the Jules Verne restaurant and one 4 t freight elevator — all traveling between the ground floor and second floor. Two double-cabin electric elevators take passengers between the second and third floors. It is estimated that the lifts’ combined annual journeys are equal to two and half times around the world or more than 105,000 km.
The Olympics will use historic locations throughout France for competition venues, and it’s no surprise that the Eiffel Tower will figure prominently. Beach volleyball will be played from a stadium directly in front of the iconic landmark. During Paris’ 2024 Heritage Days in September, the Eiffel Tower will again be featured with a special guided tour of the Tower’s historic elevators – two of which are the original hydraulic lifts installed in 1889.
Get more of Elevator World. Sign up for our free e-newsletter.
