No, we’re not back in high school algebra trying to solve for X.  If we were, I would be running as fast and far away as I could.  

Starting June 30th, the Eiffel tower is going to be lit up in blue to celebrate the six month presidency of the European Union.  The EU, consisting of 27 European nations was created in 1993 to develop a single market through standardized laws that apply to all member states.  Hoping to ease passage between boarders, the system works towards creating movement of people, goods and services from one nation to another with relative ease.  Can you imagine what chaos would ensue if we had to show ID every time we here in the US crossed borders into neighboring states?  That’s exactly the dilemma Europeans faced as they made there way from France to Spain, Portugal, etc.  

The rotation of Presidency of the European Council is taken over every six months by the member nations.  The country can choose as their representative the head of state (president) or head of government (prime minister).

From July to the end of 2008, it is France’s turn to take over leadership.  In honor of this time period, the Eiffel tower will be bathed in blue light, with a circle of 27 yellow stars representing the 27 EU members.  Eighty giant projectors on the ground and 100 more on the tower will be required to create this lighting artistry.  

If you are in Paris during the next two months, you will be able to see this extravaganza for yourself.  After that, it’s back to the tried and true yellowy-orangey color they’ve been using.  It’s all good as far as I’m concerned.

Photo credit:  wikipedia 

Post from: The Paris Traveler