Paris, often hailed as the "City of Love," will also continue to radiate the spirit of the Olympics long after the 2024 Games have ended. In a landmark decision announced by Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, the iconic Olympic rings currently adorning the Eiffel Tower will remain a permanent fixture on the city’s most famous monument.
In a recent interview with "Quest France," Hidalgo confirmed the decision: "As the Mayor of Paris, this decision rests with me, and I have the approval of the International Olympic Committee. So yes, the rings will stay on the Eiffel Tower."
The Olympic rings, which are mounted between the first and second floors of the Eiffel Tower, are an impressive sight. Spanning 29 meters in width and 15 meters in height, they are positioned 60 meters above ground, symbolizing the unity and competitive spirit of the Games.
However, there will be one notable change. The current rings, though grand, are too heavy to withstand the harsh winter winds that Paris often experiences. Hidalgo explained, "They are too heavy to remain permanently, especially during winter. We will commission new ones that are just as large but lighter, to be installed in the same location on the Eiffel Tower."
This decision ensures that the Olympic legacy will continue to be a part of Parisian life, inspiring both residents and visitors alike, long after the athletes have returned home. The Eiffel Tower, already a symbol of Paris, will now also symbolize the enduring spirit of the Olympic Games.
