The Eiffel Tower was erected in 1889 as the entrance arch to the 1889 World's Fair. As is so common with great works of art, such as the statue David, Picasso Sculpture in Chicago and all the great impressionist painters, the Eiffel Tower was initially greatly criticized. When built it was the tallest man made structure in the world, a title it held for 41 years until the New York City Chrysler Building was erected in 1930.