London and other British important cities

London is the capital of the United Kingdom. It is 9th largest city in the world – its population is about 10 million inhabitants. London is situated on the river Thames in south-east England. The river Thames with its important docks has been used as a highway since prehistoric times. It is the biggest port because the river is deep enough. It is an economic, cultural and important political centre of G.B. London is divided into Westminster city (government centre) and The City of London (financial centre).

London was found as a Roman settlement (osada) of Londonium (the most important port), which grew around a bridge over the River Thames built by the Roman emperor Claudius. The Great Plague 1665 destroyed four-fifths of the city. The Great Fire of London in 1666 destroyed almost all the city. It began in a baker’s shop in Pudding Lane a continued for 4 days and after the fire, the city was rebuilt. After the great fire London developed into a city of world-wide fame (sláva). Many buildings were designed by sir Christopher Wren. He was responsible for the Monument to the Great Fire. It is a great pillar (sloup), which is 65 m high. In the 19th century it was the largest city of the world, the largest port land and the most important financial centre. During World War II was heavily damaged by the German bombing.

There are many places of interest. We can see them by walking or by various means of transport. London’s famous red double-deckers go almost everywhere. For fast transport we can go by the Underground. It is the oldest underground in the world.

In Britain only 3 cities have the underground: London, Glasgow and Newcastle. The symbol of London is black taxi called cab. River busses are very popular because of huge traffic. On can see the full automatic train without drivers too. There are also 3 airports in London. The most important are Heathrow and Gatwick.