Paris Mayor Faces Backlash Over Plan to Keep Olympic Rings on Eiffel Tower

Paris Mayor Faces Backlash Over Plan to Keep Olympic Rings on Eiffel Tower

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo has once again ignited a lively debate. This time, it’s over her bold announcement to keep the Olympic rings on the Eiffel Tower even after the 2024 Summer Olympics and Paralympics. Anne Hidalgo expressed that she has the authority and support from the International Olympic Committee (IOC) for this decision.

However, it has caused a split in opinions among Parisians and heritage advocates as reported by Public Radio of Armenia. The five interlaced rings, symbolizing the continents, blue for Europe, yellow for Asia, black for Africa, green for Oceania, and red for the Americas. This massive installation, measuring 29 meters in width, 15 meters in height, and weighing 30 tonnes, was initially planned to be taken down after the Paralympics ended on September 8, 2024.

In a recent interview with Ouest-France, Hidalgo announced her intention to keep the Olympic rings on the Eiffel Tower permanently. “The decision is up to me, and I have the agreement of the IOC,” she stated. “So yes, they will stay on the Eiffel Tower.”

This proposal has received mixed reactions. Some Parisians support it, seeing the rings as a way to celebrate hosting the Olympics and boost the city’s global image. For supporters, the rings symbolize unity, pride, and international cooperation. On the other hand, the idea has also faced significant opposition.

See also

Politics, Travel

Mayor of Amsterdam Calls for Drug Legalization

Heritage campaigners and preservationists argue that the Eiffel Tower, a symbol of French culture and architectural brilliance, should not be permanently altered for a temporary event. Critics call the decision a defilement of the landmark. They fear that the rigs will alter the historical significance and aesthetic of the Eiffel Tower.

To address these concerns, Hidalgo mentioned that the current 9-meter rings would be replaced with a lighter version for sustainability. However, critics remain unsatisfied, arguing that any rings, regardless of size or weight, change the Eiffel Tower’s fundamental character.

The debate continues over Mayor Hidalgo’s vision of keeping the Olympic rings on the Eiffel Tower. It still remains unclear if the public will embrace this idea or if heritage defenders’ objections will lead to a change.