
London
London ...
on the River Thames
London is a city that has deep roots in the cultural and
history of our modern world, its history goes back hundreds of years. It has
become one of the most treasures cities in Europe and is internationally known.
Its history is rich and its traditions and cultures are cherished.
London is located in England, part
of the United Kingdom. Positioned on the west coast of the European mainland,
London still maintains a monarchy, with the Queen of England; the Queen and
Royal family are internationally known. It is the capital city of England and
has a population of about 12 million. To this day you can still get a taste of
traditional England by visiting London.
The Romans first developed the “City of London”
close to the River Thames. The projects they took on in the area consisted of
building a bridge and a notable city wall. They also established London as an
important port for trade. After the completion of these projects, the Romans
left but trade still thrived in the region. Over time the city saw the Saxtons
and the Vikings prevail. About 50 years later Westminster, and abbey and
palace, was built.
The “City of London” today
consists of the Central Business District with an area of only one square mile.
In this square mile you’ll find the Bank of England, The Stock Exchange, the
international banks, and more. You won’t find residents living here; it’s not a
residential area.
The city came under the authority of such
notable men as William the Conqueror who established the city’s independence and
right to self-government. Elizabeth I expanded the city and in 40 years the
population nearly doubled to 200,000. The Great Fire of 1666, as large in scale
as it was, did not lessen the city’s growth.
During the 19th century the city saw
massive development. The Industrial Revolution exploded commerce in the city
and its population grew to around 6.6 million in 1851. London was devastated by
WWII as the Luftwaffe pounded the city with bombs. But she would be rebuilt,
more beautiful than ever.
The weather in London is quite diverse.
Temperatures can range from below freezing in winter (December-March) to very
warm in the summer (June-September). Snow does fall in the winter in London.
Spring is usually frequented by regular rainfalls.
London has many areas of historical interest
that you can stopover. Just walking through the city you’ll experience many of
these. Buckingham Palace with the changing of the guards is an experience for
the whole family. Other historical attractions include the London Bridge, Big
Ben and Saint Paul’s Cathedral, where Charles and Di tied the knot in 1981.
Westminster Abbey, as mentioned earlier, is one of the most visited churches in
the world. The number of visitors here has increased by 300 percent since
Princess Di’s funeral. You can take a trip to The House of Parliament and see
the House of Commons and the House of Lords. While you’re here check the time
on the most recognized clock in the world, Big Ben.
There’s something for the whole family in
London. For the children there’s Hyde Park, the largest of the Royal Parks, and
the Science Museum for a hands-on good time. Museums and Galleries include the
Tate Gallery and Victoria and Albert Museum, one of the most popular Museums in
London. There’s also the National Gallery, Natural History Museum, and the
Shakespeare’s Globe, a tourist favorite. Whatever you’re idea of a good time,
London is sure to have just what you want.