French authorities have announced Paris’s Eiffel Tower has re-opened following a three-month closure due to coronavirus – just in time for summer.

The closure is the 10-ton metal landmark’s longest since World War II and its reopening is a symbolic moment for France as it begins to welcome tourists once again.

The first visitors were allowed to enter from 10am on Thursday morning in limited numbers.

Due to Covid-19 concerns, lifts will remain out-of-action, the top of the monument will not be opened and wearing face masks will be mandatory for all visitors over the age of 11.

Ground markings will be put in place to ensure people keep their distance from one another, along with daily cleaning and disinfection of public spaces at the tower.

France is one of the world’s most visited countries and its tourism industry has taken a hard hit through the Covid-19 pandemic.