History
London was first established as a city by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago. Despite attacks from Queen Boudica and Saxon raids in the third century, London was a central place of commerce. Although towards the end of Roman-British rule, around the fifth century, the city once again fell into decline. It wasn't until around the sixth century that the city was really occupied again, this time by the Anglo-Saxons. By the tenth century, the city was the center of political activities although it was not yet the capital. It is unclear when exactly it became the capital city although it was certainly around the eleventh century.
Function
London is the capital city of England. It serves as a center for politics. The Queen has her primary official residence there, and it is also the site of the Houses of Parliament and Downing Street. It is considered the gateway to Europe, possibly because it is the site of the Eurostar train which allows easy access to the rest of Europe. It also serves as a cultural and economic center for the country.
Significance
While London certainly has a lot of historical and political importance to Britain, it is also of great economic importance. Along with New York and Tokyo, it is one of the three biggest centers of commerce for the world economy. It has the sixth largest economy in the world and the second largest international banking center. In addition to the economy, it is also well known for the arts. The city is home to many galleries and museums, as well as its famous West End theater. In fact, tourism is also one of London's biggest industries.
Geography
Historically, London actually consists of two cities, the City of London and the City of Westminster. Along with its surrounding counties, it makes up Greater London. Its most recognized geographical feature is the Thames River, which is the second longest river in the country. The Thames and its access to other cities and out to the North Sea is the reason why this city became the main settlement for so many different cultures.
London was first established as a city by the Romans nearly 2,000 years ago. Despite attacks from Queen Boudica and Saxon raids in the third century, London was a central place of commerce. Although towards the end of Roman-British rule, around the fifth century, the city once again fell into decline. It wasn't until around the sixth century that the city was really occupied again, this time by the Anglo-Saxons. By the tenth century, the city was the center of political activities although it was not yet the capital. It is unclear when exactly it became the capital city although it was certainly around the eleventh century.
Function
London is the capital city of England. It serves as a center for politics. The Queen has her primary official residence there, and it is also the site of the Houses of Parliament and Downing Street. It is considered the gateway to Europe, possibly because it is the site of the Eurostar train which allows easy access to the rest of Europe. It also serves as a cultural and economic center for the country.
Significance
While London certainly has a lot of historical and political importance to Britain, it is also of great economic importance. Along with New York and Tokyo, it is one of the three biggest centers of commerce for the world economy. It has the sixth largest economy in the world and the second largest international banking center. In addition to the economy, it is also well known for the arts. The city is home to many galleries and museums, as well as its famous West End theater. In fact, tourism is also one of London's biggest industries.
Geography
Historically, London actually consists of two cities, the City of London and the City of Westminster. Along with its surrounding counties, it makes up Greater London. Its most recognized geographical feature is the Thames River, which is the second longest river in the country. The Thames and its access to other cities and out to the North Sea is the reason why this city became the main settlement for so many different cultures.
Size
London covers some 609 square miles. However, it does not have any official city limits. Some consider London to only be those within the London postal code while London could also include the London Commuter Belt. According to London Online, in 2005, London's population was over seven and a half million people. However, the Office for National Statistics did a wider survey in 2001 to include outer regions. The studies showed a population of over eight million people. The city is ranked as the twenty-fifth largest city in the world.
London covers some 609 square miles. However, it does not have any official city limits. Some consider London to only be those within the London postal code while London could also include the London Commuter Belt. According to London Online, in 2005, London's population was over seven and a half million people. However, the Office for National Statistics did a wider survey in 2001 to include outer regions. The studies showed a population of over eight million people. The city is ranked as the twenty-fifth largest city in the world.
