For many around the world, it is difficult to imagine France without the Eiffel Tower rising above the Paris skyline. Known fondly as La dame de fer or “Iron Lady,” the 330-metre iron structure has come to symbolise both French pride and global architectural brilliance.

Yet, this world-famous monument has often had to close its doors, from protests and strikes to safety concerns and even global crises. The most recent closure began on 2 October 2025, when the tower was shut after protesters took to the streets to oppose spending cuts and demand higher taxes on the wealthy.

Here’s a look at the history of times when the Eiffel Tower has been forced to close and the reasons behind them.

When was the Eiffel Tower built and why is it important?

The Eiffel Tower was designed and built between 1887 and 1889 by engineer Gustave Eiffel and his team, Maurice Koechlin and Emile Nouguier.

It was constructed for the 1889 Universal Exposition in Paris, marking the centenary of the French Revolution. Initially criticised by artists and intellectuals for its design, the tower gradually became one of the most recognised cultural landmarks in the world.

Why is the Eiffel Tower closed in 2025?

The Eiffel Tower has been closed since 2 October 2025, when nationwide protests erupted across France. Demonstrators have been calling for an end to government spending cuts and for higher taxes on the rich. These strikes, organised by France’s major unions, have spread across the country and are the latest in a series of protests linked to political unrest and tense budget talks.

How many times has the Eiffel Tower been closed before?

Throughout its 136-year history, the Eiffel Tower has faced multiple closures for different reasons including strikes, safety incidents, security threats, and maintenance work.

Strikes and worker protests

  • August 2018: Staff walkout

In August 2018, workers at the Eiffel Tower went on strike, leading to a two-day shutdown. The staff protested against new visitor management rules that caused long queues and overcrowding. Unions argued that the changes were unfair to both employees and tourists. According to France24, the strike led to major disruptions during the busy tourist season.

  • February 2024: Ongoing disputes

In February 2024, another strike closed the Eiffel Tower once again. Workers demanded greater investment in maintenance and staff welfare. The tower’s operator, SETE, promised to double its maintenance budget and raise ticket prices, but unions felt the measures were inadequate. As reported by Le Monde, the strike led to the monument’s closure on the morning of 24 February.

Safety concerns and public incidents

  • May 2019: Climber causes evacuation

A man climbing the tower in May 2019 led to an emergency evacuation. Authorities quickly cleared the area for safety, disrupting visits for several hours. France24 noted that the incident caused significant inconvenience for tourists.

  • August 2024: Pre-olympics security scare

Just hours before the closing ceremony of the 2024 Summer Olympics, another man was spotted climbing the tower. The police arrested him, and he was placed under investigation for endangering public safety and trespassing at a historical site.

Global health crises

  • March 2020: COVID-19 pandemic

During the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020, the Eiffel Tower was closed as part of nationwide restrictions to prevent the spread of the virus. Like many landmarks worldwide, it remained shut for months before reopening under strict safety measures.

Terrorist attacks and security threats

  • November 2015: Paris attacks

The Eiffel Tower was closed following the terrorist attacks in Paris and Saint-Denis on 13 November 2015, when coordinated strikes across the city left many dead and injured.

  • August 2017: Knife attack

In August 2017, the tower was briefly evacuated after a man with a knife threatened tourists and soldiers. The man was later detained and told investigators that he wanted to kill a soldier. France24 reported that this led to tighter security checks at the site.

  • December 2023: Fatal stabbing near the tower

In December 2023, a German tourist was fatally stabbed near the Eiffel Tower in what authorities described as a terrorist attack. Two others were injured. According to Le Monde, the attacker was known to officials as a radical Islamist with mental health issues.

Maintenance and renovation work

  • September 2024: Removal of Olympic rings

Following the 2024 Summer Olympics, the 30-tonne Olympic rings installed on the Eiffel Tower were removed in September 2024. The removal sparked discussions about preserving the tower’s appearance. Le Monde reported that the decision was made after debates on the long-term impact of such decorations on the monument’s image.

Why does the Eiffel Tower keep closing?

From labour strikes to global emergencies, the Eiffel Tower has been affected by both national and international events. Each closure highlights how the monument, though a symbol of strength and beauty, remains deeply tied to the social and political atmosphere of France.