The closure was prompted by large-scale demonstrations organized by major unions, protesting proposed government spending cuts and demanding higher taxes on the wealthy.

On Oct 2, protesters flooded the streets of over 200 French cities, including Paris, to oppose government austerity measures.

According to CNBC TV18, thousands of workers, retirees, and students began marching from the Place d’Italie towards the Eiffel Tower.

Unions have called on Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to withdraw the proposed budget plans that include welfare freezes and austerity policies, saying such measures would adversely impact France’s middle- and lower-income groups.

In response to the protests, the Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel (SETE), the organization responsible for managing the Eiffel Tower, announced the temporary closure of the monument.

A sign at the site reads, “Due to a strike, the Eiffel Tower is closed. We apologize.”

SETE emphasized that the closure is a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of staff and visitors amid the ongoing unrest.

View from Eiffel Tower. Photo: Sujoy Dhar

Debunking Demolition Rumours

Amid the strike, rumours circulated, especially in social media, suggesting that the Eiffel Tower was set to be demolished in 2026, CNBC TV18 said.

Questions are raised from time to time about the Tower’s upkeep whenever closures or maintenance work draw public attention.

Built from wrought iron, the landmark requires ongoing care — including painting, anti-corrosion treatment, and regular safety inspections.

During previous strikes, workers have expressed concerns about rust and limited funding for maintenance, which has occasionally fuelled speculation about the monument’s condition.

However, experts clarify that minor rust or surface corrosion is not a sign of structural danger, nor does it indicate any intent to dismantle the tower.

These speculations have been debunked by SETE, which confirmed that there are no plans for the demolition of the monument. The rumours likely stemmed from misinformation during the period of unrest.

The Parisian icon stands tall. Photo: Arnab Nandy

Historical Context of Closures

The current closure is not unprecedented. The Eiffel Tower has experienced temporary shutdowns in the past due to various reasons, including labour disputes and safety concerns, according to The Times of India.

For instance, in Aug 2018, the tower was closed for two days following a staff strike protesting new visitor management policies.

In May 2019, authorities evacuated the tower after a man was seen climbing the structure.

Again, in March 2020, the Eiffel Tower shut its doors to the public as part of France’s nationwide measures to contain the spread of COVID-19.

The Tower was again closed for consecutive days in Feb 2024, following a strike by the staff and eventually reopened after SETE reached an accord with the unions.

Anticipated Reopening

SETE has stated that the Eiffel Tower will reopen once the strike concludes and it is deemed safe for staff and visitors.

The timeline for reopening depends on the duration of the national strike and the outcome of ongoing negotiations between the government and the unions.

Tourists planning to visit Paris are advised to check SETE’s official channels for updates on the status of the Eiffel Tower.