Eiffel Tower reopens after longest closure since World War II

Marking another milestone in France's recovery from coronavirus lockdown, the Eiffel Tower reopened to visitors Thursday after its longest-ever closure in peace time: 104 days. (AP)

Lifts that usually whisk visitors up the 324-meter (1,063-feet) tall wrought-iron Eiffel Tower remain closed, so for now people have to take the stairs. In pic: People queue up prior to visit the Eiffel Tower, in Paris, Thursday. (AP)

Of the tower's three decks, only the first two reopened. Those who made the climb Thursday were rewarded with far-away views and a light breeze in scorching summer weather. (AP)

The Eiffel Tower reopens after the coronavirus pandemic led to the iconic Paris landmark's longest closure since World War II. (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)(AP)

The tower lost 27 million euros ($30 million) from the lockdown that started in March, its director general, Patrick Branco Ruivo told AP.

Tourists who are trickling back to Paris were delighted to find the landmark open when some other attractions in the French capital remain closed. The Louvre Museum isn't reopening until July 6. (AP)