136 Years of the Eiffel Tower: A Symbol of Innovation and the Legacy of World Expos

On March 31, 1889, the Eiffel Tower was completed, becoming one of the most iconic structures in the world. Built for the Expo 1889 Paris, which marked the centennial of the French Revolution, the Tower symbolized progress and engineering excellence. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, it was built in a record time of just 2 years, 2 months, and 5 days – a remarkable feat for its time that demonstrated the possibilities of modern construction and design.

Although its unique design was initially met with skepticism and resistance, the Tower eventually became the emblem of Paris and a lasting symbol of the International Exhibitions. Since their inception, these global events have served as platforms for groundbreaking innovation, cultural exchange, and visionary architecture. More than a century later, the spirit of International Exhibitions lives on, and the upcoming Specialized Expo in Belgrade will continue this legacy.

Expo 2027 Belgrade, with the theme "Play for Humanity: Sport and Music for All", will celebrate the transformative power of play, movement, and creativity. Just as the Eiffel Tower once stood as a symbol of human ingenuity, the Belgrade Expo will showcase innovative and avant-garde ideas that are shaping the future. As Paris in 1889 presented a technological marvel of its era, Belgrade in 2027 aims to spark a new wave of global collaboration and inspiration.

As the world marks the anniversary of the Eiffel Tower, we are reminded of the lasting impact of International Exhibitions. Around the globe, these events continue to define eras, ignite imagination, and build bridges between cultures, ensuring that innovations, like the Eiffel Tower itself, stand tall for future generations.

The Belgrade Expo will leave behind a transformative legacy, including the new Belgrade Fairgrounds, the Expo 2027 Belgrade Museum, an Auditorium, the International Play Forum, the Center for Innovation and Creativity, the National Center for the Promotion of Sport and Physical Activity, a National Centre for Musical Innovation, new schools and preschools, residential areas and a hotel, retail spaces, as well as new playgrounds and public areas. These new facilities will position Belgrade and Serbia as future hosts for major global events.

“International Exhibitions don’t just leave a cultural and innovative mark – they also significantly impact the infrastructure of host cities. The Eiffel Tower is a prime example of how Expo projects can become enduring symbols of urban development. Expo 2027 Belgrade brings a new urban planning impulse through improvements to transportation networks, modernization of public spaces, and the creation of a legacy that will serve generations to come,” said Dušan Borovčanin, CEO of Expo 2027 Belgrade.