LONDON(the capital)

LONDON.

London is the capital of the UK of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, its political, economic and commercial centers. Its population is about 8 million.

London stands on the river Thames. The city is very old. Traditionally it is divided into several parts: the City, Westminster, the West End and the East End. They are very different from each other.

The City is the oldest part of London, its financial and business center. Few people live in the City but over a million come to work here. Two masterpieces are situated within the City: St. Paul’s Cathedral and the Tower of London. St. Paul’s Cathedral was built in the 17^th century by Christopher Wren. It is also the main cathedral of the Anglican Church. The Tower of London was built in the 11^th century. It was used as a fortress, a palace and a prison. Now it is a museum. The ravens are the famous sight and the symbol of the Tower.

Westminster is the aristocratic official part of London. It includes Buckingham Palace where the Queen lives and the Houses of Parliament or Westminster Palace. The Clock Tower of the Houses of Parliament is famous for its big hour bell, known as “Big Ben”.

Westminster Abbey is the place where coronation of nearly all kings and queens has taken place.

The West End is the richest and most beautiful part of London. The best hotels, restaurants, shops, clubs, parks and houses are situated here. English aristocracy lives in this region.

Trafalgar Square is the geographical center of London. It was named in the memory of Admiral Nelson’s victory at the battle of Trafalgar in 1805. The tall Nelson’s Column stands in the middle of the Square. Opposite the Nelson’s monument is the National Gallery and the National Portrait Gallery. Not far from the National Gallery is the British Museum famous for its rich library.

The East End is an industrial district of London. There are many factories and the Port of London there. The people who live there call themselves “cockneys” – true Londoners.