The 72 Names Engraved on the Eiffel Tower – Who Were They?

We often recognize the Eiffel Tower as the symbol of Paris and one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. But did you know that there are dozens of names engraved into its iron structure? These names are not mere decoration—they are a tribute to the great minds of science and engineering who helped build France's legacy as a scientific power. In this post, we’ll explore who these people were and why their names were immortalized on the Eiffel Tower.

 

 

Why Were Names Engraved on the Eiffel Tower?

The Eiffel Tower’s designer, Gustave Eiffel, envisioned the structure as more than just a feat of architecture. He wanted it to represent scientific and technical progress. To that end, he chose to inscribe the names of 72 prominent scientists, mathematicians, and engineers from France’s past.

The names are engraved around the lower balcony of the first floor, with 18 names on each of the four sides—a total of 72 names in gilded letters.

A flat-style digital infographic showing the Eiffel Tower with 18 engraved names at its base, symbolizing the 72 scientists honored on the structure. The background is light blue, and the names are displayed in golden letters on a rectangular plaque.


Who Were the People Behind These Names?

These names belong to mathematicians, physicists, chemists, biologists, and astronomers who shaped the Golden Age of French science.

  • Lagrange – Mathematician, pioneer of mechanics
  • Fourier – Known for heat transfer and Fourier transforms
  • Pascal – Known for Pascal's Law and probability theory
  • Ampère – Namesake of the unit of electric current
  • Buffon – Naturalist and encyclopedist
  • Lavoisier – Father of modern chemistry

Many of these are names we remember from textbooks. Seeing them on the Eiffel Tower reminds us that it is not only a monument of iron and engineering, but also a monument to knowledge and discovery.

 

 

The Historical and Symbolic Meaning

The 72 names are more than memorials. They are a tribute to human progress and scientific achievement. By embedding these names into an architectural marvel, Eiffel transformed his tower into a monument of intellectual legacy.

While millions of tourists visit the tower for photos, few pause to examine the names. But doing so offers a rare glimpse into the minds that helped shape modern science.

Where Can You See the Names?

You can find them engraved below the first floor balcony on all four sides of the tower—18 names per side. During the day, the gilded letters shine under sunlight. At night, they reflect ambient light and create a subtle glow, like nameplates in the sky.

As you climb the tower, take a moment to read each name and reflect on what it means for a person to become part of a nation's identity.

 

 

In Closing

The Eiffel Tower is not just a steel monument. It is a story told through names, knowledge, and innovation. The 72 names etched into its body are a record of human curiosity, honor, and pursuit of truth. Next time you visit Paris, look up at the tower and take a moment to appreciate the people behind the iron.

Meta Description (under 150 characters)

Discover the 72 names engraved on the Eiffel Tower and their legacy in French science, mathematics, and engineering.

Relevant Keywords

Eiffel Tower names, Eiffel Tower scientists, Gustave Eiffel, engraved names on Eiffel Tower, history of Eiffel Tower, French inventors, science tribute, golden letters Eiffel Tower, tower inscriptions, monument to science

Popular posts from this blog

How to Reduce NAS LED Lights and Noise During 24/7 Operation – 5 Practical Solutions

Understanding 220V Single-Phase Power: Hot, Neutral, and Ground Wires