Eiffel family opposes Olympic rings on Eiffel Tower after Paris Games

The descendants of Gustave Eiffel, the designer of the Eiffel Tower, are opposing the plan to keep the Olympic rings on the monument after the Paris Olympics. Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo intends to leave the rings in place until at least 2028, coinciding with the next Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The Eiffel family argues that the rings, which are large and colorful, disrupt the tower's aesthetic balance and alter its iconic shape. They believe this change undermines the historical significance and neutrality of the Eiffel Tower, which has become a global symbol of Paris and France. The family association, AGDE, has consulted lawyers to explore options for blocking the mayor's proposal. They emphasize that the Eiffel Tower, completed in 1889, was originally intended to be a temporary structure, yet it has become a permanent fixture in the Paris skyline. The family suggests that the rings should only remain until the end of 2024, marking the conclusion of the Olympic year, to preserve the integrity of the monument. The Eiffel Tower attracts around seven million visitors annually, with a significant portion coming from abroad, highlighting its status as the world's most visited monument. The family’s concerns reflect a broader sentiment about preserving cultural heritage and the original vision of iconic structures. As discussions continue, the outcome will likely influence how public monuments are treated in relation to temporary events, raising questions about the balance between celebration and preservation in urban spaces.