Less than a decade after the Great Exhibition, iron as a structural material was finished-which makes it slightly odd that the most iconic structure of the entire century, about to rise over Paris, was made of that doomed material. I refer of course to the soaring wonder of the age known as the Eiffel Tower. Never in history has a structure been more technologically advanced, materially obsolescent, and gloriously pointless all at the same time.
The Eiffel Tower, one of the most recognizable structures in the world, was built in a time when the use of iron as a structural material was already seen as outdated. This paradox highlights the unique position of the tower, which stands not only as an engineering marvel but also as a symbol of a bygone era in architecture and materials. Its construction came just a few years after the Great Exhibition, showcasing the rapid advancements in technology and design during that period.
Despite being considered technologically superior, the Eiffel Tower embodies the idea of obsolescence in structural design. It exemplifies a blend of innovation and impracticality, drawing attention for its grandeur rather than its functionality. This creates an intriguing contrast, as it stands tall as a monumental achievement, representing human creativity and ambition, while simultaneously highlighting the transient nature of materials and trends in the architectural landscape.
