London is the capital of Great Britain. More than eight million people live in London. It lies on both banks of the river Thames. It is the largest city in Europe and one of the largest cities in the world. London is not only the capital of the country. It is also a very big port; one of the greatest commercial centres in the world; a university city; and the seat of the government of Great Britain. The most important areas of London are: the City, the West End, the East End and Westminster. The City is the heart of the business and financial life of the country. The City occupies only a little more than one square mile, but most of the banks and offices are found in this part of London. The West End is the richest area of London. You can see the best shops, restaurants, theatres, cinemas, museums, fine parks and squares there. Rich people live in the West End. The East End is the "hands" of London. Working people live there. These hands have built the City banks, the palaces, theatres and shops of the West End. They have built up the wealth of Great Britain. There are few parks in this part of London. Most of the streets are narrow. The Palace of Westminster — the correct name for the Houses of Parliament — is a magnificent building. Westminster Abbey is very beautiful. Nearly all the kings and queens of Britain were crowned and buried there. Many great English scientists lie buried there, among them Newton and Darwin. In the Poet's Corner some of the famous English poets and writers are buried.
