The Paris Olympics organizers have revealed a stunning display of the five Olympic rings mounted on the iconic Eiffel Tower as the French capital celebrates 50 days until the commencement of the Summer Games. The rings, crafted from recycled French steel, are showcased on the south side of the 135-year-old landmark, offering a breathtaking view overlooking the Seine River. Each ring boasts an impressive diameter of 9 meters (30 feet).
During the opening ceremony on July 26, thousands of athletes will parade through the heart of Paris on boats along a 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) route on the Seine at sunset. The Eiffel Tower, affectionately known as La Dame de Fer (The Iron Lady), will play a central role in the Paris Games, with men's and women's volleyball matches set to take place at the foot of the 330-meter (1,083-foot) monument.
Spectators, numbering nearly 13,000, will gather at the temporary Eiffel Tower Stadium on the Champ de Mars to witness the sporting events, surrounded by the picturesque setting where locals and tourists often enjoy picnics or watch fireworks on July 14. Notably, the Olympic and Paralympic medals in Paris will contain pieces of iron extracted from the tower, adding a unique touch to the prestigious awards.
The Eiffel Tower has experienced a surge in visitors leading up to the 2024 Games, with a recent installation of the Olympic rings involving the use of two massive cranes to lift the 30-ton structure and position it between the tower's first and second floors. The rings will be illuminated nightly by 100,000 LED bulbs throughout the Paralympic Games, which kick off on August 28, 17 days following the conclusion of the Olympics.
The Paralympics will bring together 4,400 athletes from 180 countries to compete in 549 events across 22 sports. Numerous sporting competitions will be held near renowned landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Versailles, and the Grand Palais, promising a memorable and visually stunning experience for participants and spectators alike.
For more updates on the Paris Olympics, visit AP Paris Olympic coverage.
