LONDON
Fact File:
Country: England
Population: 7.5 million
Area: 1,579 km2
Elevation: 79ft
Language Spoken: English and 300 others
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Flag of London Court of Arms of London
The capital city of
England and the United Kingdom, London is one of the most well-known cities in
the world. London has always been and will always be a very important city, as
it is one of the world’s leading business, financial and cultural centers in
today’s world. London is actually also the most populous city within city limits
of the European Union, with 7.5 million people living in the city itself. It
also has a suburban population of aroun14 million people. After New York, it is
the most cosmopolitan city in the world. London is also an international
transport center, with 5 international airports. One of these 5 is Heathrow,
which carries the most international passengers every year. London is also known
for its fine institutions, such as Oxford and Cambridge.
Besides being a leader in business and finance, London is also an amazing
tourist spot! One can roam around London for weeks and never tire from it. The
amazing and efficient public transport, especially the city buses and trains,
make traveling in the city a breeze.
Places To Visit:
Big Ben
The Big Ben, as it is known, is the clock tower of the Westminster Palace. It
holds the title as the “world’s largest four-faced chiming clock”. The clock
itself was built in 1854, but the tower was only constructed four years later,
in 1858.
Tower of London
Originally constructed 1078 by William the Conqueror, this tower has served many
purposes, the latter being a World Heritage Site and museum. At first, it was a
fort, which then turned into a prison, where very famous figures, such as Guy
Fawkes and Queen Elizabeth 1 had been imprisoned. Now a museum which hundreds of
thousands of tourists flock to every year, it also houses the collection of the
Crown Jewels, an exquisite collection of crowns, swords and jewelry dating back
to 1303. They have been there since then, and have been temporarily taken out
during World War II. The world famous Kohinoor diamond is also present among the
display.
Buckingham Palace
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the British monarch. The changing
of the guard, a ceremony which takes place daily, is very interesting, and is a
must see for anyone visiting this palace.
Westminster Abbey
The Collegiate Church of St. Peter, Westminster, or popularly known as the
Westminster Abbey is a gothic church. Centuries old, this Abbey has a history
long enough to tire anyone out. Many famous figures have been buried here,
including all of the deceased British Royal family, Charles Darwin and Sir Isaac
Newton.
Royal Parks
Definitely some of the most beautiful, and well-maintained parks in the world,
the Royal Parks are conveniently located all around the city, so one can always
stop by at one and relax, and enjoy the nature around.
Museums
The museums in London are probably the best in the world. For example, the
British Museum, which has artifacts from just about every country in the world.
One could explore the museum for an entire week, and still not be able to see
everything. The Natural History Museum, Science Museum and National Gallery, as
well as the Tate are all excellent museums and art galleries as well.
