It is called Objectum Sexuality (OS), the love affair between a human and an inanimate object. They are called Objectophiles, people who are in love with an object. This is not just a simple fascination with a structure, or a love like you love your favorite sweater or a new pair of shoes. This is a full-on romantic and intimate relationship between a person and a bridge, a fence, a plane, or like the case of Erika Eiffel, the Eiffel Tower in Paris.

It sounds so silly, but there are actually people who are “in love” with objects or structures. 37-year-old professional archer and trained martial artist, Erika, “married” the Eiffel Tower in a commitment ceremony in 2007. She even legally changed her name to reflect the bond she’s made with the tower. I now present to you, Mrs. Erika Eiffel, wife of the Eiffel Tower.

The OS term was first coined by Eija-Riitta Berliner-Mauer, a 54-year-old woman who has been “married” to the Berlin Wall for 29 years.There are 40 self-proclaimed objectum-sexuals worldwide.

I do have to agree, the Eiffel Tower would be the perfect husband…tall, dark and handsome; the silent type; and always erect.