Built in 1889 as the opening archway for the World Fair commemorating the centennial of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower was meant to last only 20 years. Now almost 120 years old, this monument, made of metal, is the most visited monument in the world.

Gustave Eiffel beat 300 other contestants for the building prize and although not all French people liked the Eiffel Tower from the start, it was kept to place telegraphic antennas on the top.

The Eiffel Tower was almost destroyed in 1944 when the Allies were approaching Paris. Hitler had ordered it to be destroyed along with other monuments in Paris. Fortunately for us, this order was not obeyed. (source youloveparis.com) More information on Paris here.