Historic Landmark Closed for Maintenance and Salary Negotiations
The iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris reopened its doors to visitors on Sunday following a six-day closure due to striking employees. The workers demanded better maintenance of the 135-year-old landmark, which was showing signs of rust, and advocated for salary hikes. The operator of the 330-meter tower announced that an agreement had been reached with the unions, promising a substantial 380 million euro investment by 2031 for renovation work.
Employees are also in the midst of salary negotiations, with a resolution expected next month. The workers had requested a raise that corresponds to the revenue generated from ticket sales. The Eiffel Tower, a symbol of Paris, is set to play a significant role in the upcoming Paris Games, with the Olympic and Paralympic medals containing fragments of iron from the historic structure.
Despite being a year-round tourist attraction, the Eiffel Tower faced a 10-day closure last year during nationwide protests against pension reforms. The reopening of the tower signifies a positive step forward in resolving the recent labor disputes.
Photo credit: SARAH MEYSSONNIER / REUTERS