On Tuesday morning, around 1,200 visitors were evacuated from the Eiffel Tower after a fire broke out in one of its elevator shafts. The fire, caused by an overheated elevator cable, occurred between the first and second floors at approximately 10:30 a.m.
Firefighters quickly contained the blaze, with no injuries reported. However, access to the landmark was temporarily restricted while the operation took place.
The Eiffel Tower, which attracts between 15,000 to 25,000 visitors daily, has experienced past fire incidents, including a significant blaze in 1956 that damaged its top section. Repairs from that fire led to the installation of the current radio antenna at its peak.
This latest incident brings to mind the 2019 fire at Notre Dame Cathedral, another famous Parisian landmark, which caused extensive damage. The cathedral was closed for five years and was recently reopened to the public.
Although this fire at the Eiffel Tower was less severe, it highlights the importance of safety precautions at historic sites. Authorities confirmed that the situation is under control, and normal operations at the tower are expected to resume soon.