Big Ben vs. Eiffel Tower
What's the Difference?
Big Ben and the Eiffel Tower are both iconic landmarks that represent their respective cities, London and Paris. Big Ben is a clock tower located in the heart of London, while the Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower situated in Paris. Both structures are known for their impressive architecture and historical significance, attracting millions of tourists each year. While Big Ben is more traditional in design and serves a practical purpose as a clock tower, the Eiffel Tower is a more modern and artistic structure that offers panoramic views of the city. Despite their differences, both landmarks are symbols of their cities and hold a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike.
Comparison
| Attribute | Big Ben | Eiffel Tower |
|---|---|---|
| Location | London, England | Paris, France |
| Height | 96 meters | 300 meters |
| Architect | Augustus Pugin | Gustave Eiffel |
| Construction Year | 1859-1859 | 1887-1889 |
| Function | Clock tower | Iron lattice tower |
Further Detail
History
Big Ben, officially known as the Elizabeth Tower, is a famous clock tower located in London, England. It was completed in 1859 and has become an iconic symbol of the city. The tower was named after the Great Bell inside, which is also known as Big Ben. On the other hand, the Eiffel Tower is a wrought iron lattice tower located in Paris, France. It was completed in 1889 and was originally built as the entrance arch for the 1889 World's Fair. The Eiffel Tower was designed by Gustave Eiffel, a French engineer, and has since become one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world.
Architecture
Big Ben is a Gothic Revival style building made of limestone and granite. The tower stands at 316 feet tall and features four clock faces, each measuring 23 feet in diameter. The clock faces are illuminated at night, making Big Ben visible from miles away. In contrast, the Eiffel Tower is made of wrought iron and stands at 1,063 feet tall. The tower has three levels for visitors to explore, with the top level offering panoramic views of Paris. The Eiffel Tower's unique lattice design has inspired many other structures around the world.
Function
Big Ben serves as a clock tower and is part of the Palace of Westminster, which houses the British Parliament. The tower chimes every hour and is a popular tourist attraction in London. Visitors can climb the 334 steps to the top of the tower for a stunning view of the city. On the other hand, the Eiffel Tower was originally built as a temporary exhibit for the World's Fair but has since become a permanent fixture in Paris. The tower serves as a radio broadcast tower and a popular tourist destination, with millions of visitors each year.
Symbolism
Big Ben is often associated with British culture and is a symbol of London and the United Kingdom. The tower has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and works of literature, further solidifying its status as an iconic landmark. The chimes of Big Ben are also broadcast on the BBC World Service, making it a familiar sound to people around the world. In contrast, the Eiffel Tower is a symbol of France and Parisian culture. The tower has been featured in countless works of art and has become a symbol of romance and elegance.
Visitors
Big Ben attracts millions of visitors each year, with tourists from around the world coming to see the iconic clock tower. Visitors can take guided tours of the tower and learn about its history and significance. The tower is also a popular spot for photographers, who capture its beauty from various angles. Similarly, the Eiffel Tower is one of the most visited landmarks in the world, with millions of tourists flocking to Paris each year to see the iconic structure. Visitors can take elevators to the top of the tower or enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants located within the tower.
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