Paris is celebrating the 130th anniversary of several of its emblems this year!

The Eiffel Tower

Inaugurated on 31 March 1889 as a preview to the Exposition Universelle (World Fair), the Eiffel Tower quickly became the emblem of Paris, then of France worldwide. Initially rejected, then adored, the monument has aroused both hatred and admiration and been constantly talked about over time. Today, it is the most visited paid monument in the world. For its 130th anniversary, there was a weekend of celebrations in March with special events and marching bands, and there is more to come! Throughout 2019, there will be treasure hunts, exhibitions and other activities to enjoy. Among them, an adventure game, ‘Eiffel Tower: The Secret Files’ to uncover the mysteries of the monument, an exhibition showing its construction, as well as a summer terrace with a nod to this anniversary year.

Worth noting: the musical La Tour de 300 Mètres (The 300-metre Tower) plunges you into the secrets of the construction of the Tower and is being performed at the Théâtre des Mathurins for this anniversary celebration. The company Theatre in Paris offers seats with a view of surtitles in English.

The Hilton Paris Opera

It’s a double celebration for the Hilton Paris Opera this year with the 130th anniversary of the hotel, and the centenary of the Hilton brand! Built in 1889 as the Grand Hôtel Terminus, the establishment — a bijou of modernity and elegance of the time — was designed to meet the accommodation requirements of the Universelle Exposition.

The Grand Salon is the heart of the establishment and listed as a historical monument. This room epitomizes the belle époque and features materials and styles dear to Gustave Eiffel For this special anniversary year 2019, the hotel offers something new plus unique creations such as the installation of a 2-metre-high Eiffel Tower at the entrance, a ‘Century Wall’ exhibition with photographs tracing the history of the Hilton Group and the Parisian establishment, as well as afternoon tea, a cocktail and a signature menu inspired by the year of the opening of the hotel.

The Moulin Rouge and the Paradis Latin

Two of the most famous Parisian cabarets are also celebrating their 130th anniversary this year! On this special occasion, the Moulin Rouge  invites you to discover its history at an off-site exhibition at the Commanderie du Clos Montmartre tracing the highlights of the establishment. For its part, the Paradis Latin welcomes a new revue, ‘Bird of Paradise’, directed by Kamel Ouali, which offers a surprising take on French Cancan while still retaining all the authenticity of the dance.