Yes. Built for the 1889 World Exhibition in Paris, the Eiffel Tower was initially intended to remain for 20 years, rather than become a permanent landmark.
The tower's operator explains that Gustave Eiffel's original operating contract ended on December 31, 1909. Scientific experiments, particularly wireless telegraphy, helped justify keeping the structure. A new 70-year contract began in January 1910.
The 20-year period concerned the tower's planned retention and operating arrangement. It should not be confused with a prediction that its iron structure would physically fail after two decades.
The Eiffel Tower began as a temporary installation. Its scientific and communications uses helped it become a lasting landmark.
Société d'Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel
The operator's historical account describes the initial 20-year period, the threat of demolition and the contract renewal in 1910.
Based on: Société d'Exploitation de la Tour Eiffel
Condé Nast Traveler
The publication's historical overview independently reports that the tower was originally supposed to remain for only 20 years.
Based on: Condé Nast Traveler
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No. SOS was selected for its distinctive Morse-code pattern. 'Save Our Souls' and 'Save Our Ship' are later interpretations, not its original meaning.
No. The Chinese Diamond Sutra scroll dated 868 predates it by centuries. Gutenberg's Bible was a landmark in European printing with movable metal type.
No. Battle armor allowed enough movement to mount a horse. A helper or mounting step could assist, but a crane was not required.