Eiffel Tower in Paris closed since Oct 2: Is the iconic landmark really set for demolition in 2026?

Eiffel Tower to be demolished in 2026?

The Eiffel Tower, one of Paris’ most iconic landmarks, has been closed to visitors since October 2, 2025, due to a nationwide strike. As demonstrators marched from Place d’Italie toward the monument, its management issued a statement confirming the closure, reported The Associated Press.

Recently, social media posts on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram have falsely suggested that the Eiffel Tower will be demolished in 2026, citing reasons such as an expiring “operating lease,” structural wear, high maintenance costs, and public complaints.

One social media user claimed, "Eiffel Tower to be demolished soon."

Eiffel tower to be demolished soon pic.twitter.com/4YUcEvSDCn

— MIGA (@miga108) October 11, 2025

Why is it closed? 

The Eiffel Tower was closed on October 2 as protests erupted across more than 200 French cities against government spending cuts and in favor of higher taxes on the wealthy. In Paris, thousands of workers, retirees, and students joined the nationwide strike organized by major unions.

The unions have called on Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu to scrap draft budget measures, including welfare freezes and austerity policies, arguing that they unfairly burden middle- and low-income households.

The Eiffel Tower is managed by SETE (Société d’Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel) under a public service concession agreement with the City of Paris.

This is not the first time the Eiffel Tower has closed due to labor disputes. In August 2018, staff strikes over new visitor management policies forced the landmark to shut for two days during the peak tourist season.

In February 2024, another strike forced the tower to remain closed for consecutive days until SETE and unions reached an agreement on maintenance and staffing. The landmark was also closed in March 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions and in May 2019 after a security incident involving a man climbing the structure.

Debunking demolition rumors

Recent social media claims that the Eiffel Tower will be demolished in 2026 are entirely false. These rumors appear to have originated from a satirical article published by Tapioca Times on September 18, 2025. The parody piece jokingly suggested that the tower faced declining attendance, drone interference, and pests, and even proposed whimsical replacements such as a water slide or a Las Vegas-style concert venue.

No credible sources, including SETE, the City of Paris, or French heritage authorities, have confirmed any plans to dismantle the monument. The Eiffel Tower remains a highly protected and well-maintained landmark, and there are no official announcements regarding demolition.

Current closure

The current closure of the Eiffel Tower is solely due to the ongoing nationwide strikes, which have disrupted staff and other essential services. Similar labor actions in the past have caused temporary closures, but normal operations are expected to resume once negotiations conclude.