Historic Section of Eiffel Tower Staircase Set for Auction

A section of the original staircase from the Eiffel Tower, designed by Gustave Eiffel and constructed for the 1889 World's Fair, is scheduled to be auctioned on May 21, 2026, in Paris. This particular piece, known as Section No. 1, consists of 14 steps, measures approximately 2.75 meters (9 feet) in height and 1.75 meters (5.7 feet) in diameter, and is made of steel and riveted sheet metal. The staircase once connected the second and third levels of the iconic monument, which attracts around seven million visitors annually.

CNN

In 1983, during a major renovation, the original staircase was dismantled to install elevators, and the staircase was divided into 24 sections. Of these, four were donated to museums, while the remaining 20 were sold at auctions. This specific section has been in a private collection for over 40 years and has recently undergone restoration by artisans responsible for the Eiffel Tower's maintenance.

Part of the Eiffel Tower to be auctioned

The auction house Artcurial estimates that this piece will fetch between €120,000 and €150,000 (approximately $146,000 to $176,000). Sabrina Dolla, associate director at Artcurial, expressed optimism about the auction, citing previous sales of similar sections, including a record sale of €523,800 (about $612,000) for another piece in 2016. Dolla described the staircase as “more than just a piece of history,” emphasizing its immersive quality as a “stationary journey through time and space.”

New York Times

Among the 20 sections sold in 1983, many remain with their original buyers. Notable locations for these pieces include the Musée d’Orsay and the Cité des Sciences in France, as well as international sites such as the Yoishii Foundation gardens in Japan and near the Statue of Liberty in New York City. Dolla anticipates a diverse range of bidders, including private collectors, cultural institutions, and corporations seeking to enhance their spaces with a piece of this historic monument.

New York TimesCNNPart of the Eiffel Tower to be auctionedA Piece Of Paris’ Eiffel Tower Is Going Up For Auction

The Eiffel Tower itself faced significant criticism upon its construction, with prominent artists and literary figures labeling it “useless” and “monstrous.” However, over time, it has become a celebrated engineering marvel and a symbol of Paris. The upcoming auction not only represents a chance to own a piece of this history but also reflects the ongoing fascination with the Eiffel Tower as a cultural icon.

New York Times

• “It's a captivating experience, a motionless journey through time and space.” — Sabrina Dolla, Associate Director, Artcurial

Part of the Eiffel Tower to be auctioned

• “it therefore took a certain amount of courage to be the first to enter the battle.” — Sabrina Dolla, Associate Director, Artcurial

New York Times

• “It was in good condition (like the one we’re presenting), and above all because a new Chinese collector wanted it at any cost. Ultimately, it’s a matter of circumstances and opportunities.” — Sabrina Dolla, Associate Director, Artcurial

CNN

This auction presents a unique opportunity for collectors and history enthusiasts alike to acquire a tangible piece of one of the world’s most recognized landmarks.

New York Times