How tall is the CN Tower in Toronto?
The CN Tower stands 553.3 metres tall. It was the world's tallest free-standing structure from 1975 until 2007, when it was surpassed by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai.
Questions about CN Tower
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Why was the CN Tower built?
Canadian National Railway built the CN Tower to solve a broadcast signal problem caused by Toronto's growing skyline. New skyscrapers were interfering with television and radio transmission, requiring antennas at least 300 metres high. The tower was also intended to demonstrate the strength of Canadian industry.
When did the CN Tower open to the public?
The CN Tower opened on the 26th of June 1976. Construction had begun on the 6th of February 1973 and the tower was topped off on the 2nd of April 1975.
How was the CN Tower antenna installed?
The antenna was lifted by a Sikorsky S-64 Skycrane helicopter named Olga, which carried it up in 36 sections. The process took three and a half weeks, compared to the six months originally planned for a crane.
Who owns the CN Tower today?
The CN Tower is owned by Canada Lands Company, a federal Crown corporation. Canadian National Railway transferred the tower to Canada Lands prior to the railway's privatization in 1995.
What records does the CN Tower still hold?
The CN Tower remains the tallest free-standing structure in the Western Hemisphere and the Western world. It also holds the record for the world's longest metal staircase at 2,579 steps and the world's highest above-ground wine cellar at 351 metres.