London Eye: a modern miracle that exceeds expectations

The London Eye, operated by Merlin Entertainments, is a giant Ferris wheel designed to take passengers into the air, providing panoramic views of the landscape on all sides. At the time of its creation in 1999, it was hailed as the world’s largest Ferris wheel. Located in central London on the banks of the River Thames, it is one of the most significant modern creations in the city. It is the largest Ferris wheel in Europe and has now achieved the status of Britain’s most popular paid tourist attraction.

Even though it is the tallest cantilevered observation wheel in the world, the London Eye was considered a great challenge that was successfully carried out with the best of the latest British technology. A masterpiece of the latest architecture, design and engineering, the Eye is seen as a demonstration of inspired imagination and innovative design. A highly talented panel of experts was entrusted with the conceptualization and design of this one-of-a-kind build.

The wheel spins 32 air-conditioned sealed capsules, representing the 32 London boroughs. Each capsule, weighing 10 tons, has the capacity to hold 25 people who can walk freely or remain seated while the wheel lifts them 135 meters into the air. The view from the pinnacle is truly impressive and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding areas. The wheel takes about half an hour for one revolution, a speed slow enough for passengers to enter the capsules and disembark at ground level without stopping the wheel’s motion.

The rim of the wheel is connected to the center with braces, similar to a huge bicycle wheel. The total weight of the steel from the Eye amounts to no less than 1,700 tons; the build included components from six European countries, namely the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic and France.