LONDON

         London is the capital of Great Britain, its political, economic and commercial centre. It is one of the largest cities in the world and the largest city in Europe. Its population is about 8 million people.

         London is one of the oldest and most interesting cities in the world.

Traditionally it is divided into four parts: the City, Westminster, the West End and the East End. They are very different from each other and seem to belong to different towns and epochs.

         The heart of London is the City, the financial and business centre. Numerous banks, offices and firms are situated there, including the Bank of England, the Stock Exchange and the Old Bailey. Few people live here, but over a million people come to the City to work. There are some famous ancient buildings within the City. Perhaps the most striking of them is St. Paul’s Cathedral, the greatest of English churches. It was built in the 17^th century by Sir Christopher Wren. The Tower of London was founded by Julius Caesar and in 1066 rebuilt by William the Conqueror. It was used as a fortress, a royal palace and a prison. Now it is a museum.

Westminster is the historic and the governmental part of London.

         Nearly all kings and queens have been crowned, married and even buried in Westminster Abbey. Many outstanding statesmen, scientists, writers, poets and painters are buried here: Newton, Darwin, Chaucer, Dickens, Kipling and so on.

         Across the road from Westminster Abbey is Westminster Palace, or the Houses of Parliament, the seat of the British Parliament. The Clock Tower of the Houses of Parliament is famous for its big hour bell, known as Big Ben.

         Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the queen.

The West End is the richest and most beautiful part of London. The best hotels, shops, restaurants, clubs and theatres are situated there.

Trafalgar Square is the geographical centre of London. It was named in memory of Admiral Nelson’s victory in the battle at Trafalgar in 1805. Nelson’s Column stands in the middle of the square.

The biggest museums of London are the British Museum, the National Gallery and the Museum of London. They contain priceless collections of ancient manuscripts, coins, sculptures and so on. Madam Tussaud’s Museum is famous for its collection of wax figures of politicians, movie stars, singers, sportsmen and writers.

London’s historical monuments and theatres, museums and parks make it one of the most popular places to visit in the world.