Fact #31
July 1, 2026The Eiffel Tower Gets Taller Every Summer
During hot weather, the iron structure expands as it warms up in the sun, causing the tower to grow by as much as 15 centimeters (about 6 inches). When temperatures drop, the metal contracts and the tower returns to its usual height.
Mini Facts
1
This natural expansion occurs because of a principle called thermal expansion.
2
The Eiffel Tower is normally about 330 meters (1,083 feet) tall, including its antennas.
3
It contains 18,000 individual iron parts held together by approximately 2.5 million rivets.
4
The tower is also repainted roughly every seven years to protect it from rust.