Paris Pays Tribute to Pope Francis: Eiffel Tower Lights to Go Dark in His Honor

As the world continues to mourn the passing of Pope Francis, the city of Paris will mark the moment with a powerful and symbolic gesture. On Monday night, the iconic Eiffel Tower will go dark, its landmark illuminations switched off as a tribute to the late Pontiff, who passed away at the age of 88.

The announcement was made by Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo, who described Pope Francis as a spiritual leader who left a profound impact not only on the Church but on humanity at large.

“He placed ecology at the centre of spiritual concerns and consistently advocated for the welcoming of refugees,” said Hidalgo, reflecting on the Pope’s legacy of compassion and progressive values.

In addition to dimming the lights on one of the world’s most recognizable monuments, Paris City Hall is planning to name a public site in the French capital after Pope Francis—a move that underscores the Pope’s influence far beyond the Vatican walls.

READ ALSO: Serie A and All Italian Football Suspended Following Death of Pope Francis

During his papacy, Pope Francis championed urgent action against climate change and consistently urged nations to embrace compassion, especially for the marginalized, the poor, and displaced communities. His encyclical Laudato Si’ became a landmark call for environmental responsibility, intertwining faith with a duty to protect the planet.

The Eiffel Tower going dark is a gesture Parisians reserve for moments of deep significance—acts of solidarity, grief, and reflection. It is a reminder that some legacies are not just written in history books but etched in the hearts of cities.

As Paris joins the world in remembering a spiritual giant, the city will fall briefly into darkness—not in despair, but in deep reverence for a man who lit the way for so many.