The Atomium gets it's name from Atom. Indeed the structure represents an Atom of Iron and had been designed especialy for the World Exhibition in Brussels that was held in 1958.
Normaly, after the exhibition, it had to be teared down, but, it was given the same attention as the Eiffel-tower in Paris that had been set up for Paris World Exhibition in 1900 and since both structures are unique, they where kept and maintained all over the years.
While the Eiffel-tower needs a constant attention and renewal, the Atomium needs less maintenance and after 45 years only, it is completely renewed.
The outher plates of the skin are made from polished aluminium and all those plates are renewed.
The old plates are sold by auction and some of the parts have changed the owner for some thousands of euros.
Here some pictures of the "old" Atomium and spectactular shots of the works made on it by good weather periods.
Enjoy those pictures that I will complete all along the working period.