The Eiffel Tower was almost destroyed during World War II, in August 1944.
As the Nazis were losing control of occupied Paris, Adolf Hitler ordered the destruction of the city, including the iconic Eiffel Tower.
Thankfully, Dietrich von Choltitz, the German military governor of Paris, disobeyed Hitler’s orders. He recognized the historical significance of the city and its landmarks, saving Paris and the Eiffel Tower from destruction.
Interestingly, the Eiffel Tower was also almost dismantled in 1909. Its original construction contract stipulated that it would be demolished after 20 years. However, its usefulness for broadcasting radio signals saved it from destruction.
