The Eiffel Tower is made from 7,300 tons of puddle iron, a refined type of iron that was considered stronger and more durable than regular iron or steel at the time of its construction.
Puddle iron is created through a process called puddling, which removes excess carbon from the melted iron ore, resulting in nearly pure iron. Unlike steel, which contains added carbon for strength, puddle iron’s low carbon content gives it a distinct robustness.
The iron used in the Eiffel Tower was sourced from Pompey forges in France, preassembled using rivets, and then mounted on-site. To prevent corrosion, it is painted every seven years.
