London

London is the capital of England and of the United Kingdom, and is the largest metropolitan area in the European Union. The city is a major tourist destination for both domestic and overseas visitors. London has a wide range of peoples, cultures, and religions, and more than 300 languages are spoken within the city. London is widely regarded as the 'capital of the world'. Its history spans nearly 2,000 years, beginning with the arrival of the Romans soon after their invasion of Britain in AD43. London is situated on the banks of the river Thames, in southeast England. The City of Westminster, where Parliament and most of the government offices are located. Also Buckingham Palace, the official London residence of the Queen and the Royal family are located there too. London was the first city in the world to have an underground railway, known as the 'Tube'. Many parts of London, such as Islington or Highgate, were once villages (small towns). Today, London is a growing city with a population of more than seven million. People have come from all parts of the world to live here. They have brought with them different ways of living and colourful festivals. London is a multicultural city, as it has been since the Roman times. Now about a quarter of the capital's inhabitants are members of the ethnic minorities.