Eiffel Tower in Wartime - Symbol of Resistance and Survival

During both World Wars, the Eiffel Tower stood firm — not just as steel and rivets, but as a symbol of France’s endurance.

⚔️ The First World War

In 1914–1918, the tower became a military communication post.
Its height allowed the French army to intercept German radio transmissions, contributing to strategic victories such as the Battle of the Marne.

🕊️ The Second World War

When Nazi forces occupied Paris, the French cut the elevator cables so the German flag could not easily be raised.
During Hitler’s visit, he famously climbed no higher than the second level — a symbolic act of defiance by Parisians.

“The tower bent to no conqueror.”
— Paris Archives, 1944

After liberation, the Eiffel Tower was illuminated again, signaling freedom’s return to the City of Light.