IELTS Speaking Part-2
100+ Sample Answers
DR VISHAL GOYAL
Ex Lecturer in English
M.Phil., Ph.D. (English), BCCIT, London (UK)
VISHAL ENGLISH, IELTS & PTE INSTITUTE, YAMUNANAGAR
57. Describe an interesting historic place.
You should say:
what it is
where it is located
what you can see there now
and explain why this place is interesting.
Sample Answer 1
One of the most fascinating historic places in my country is the Taj Mahal, located in the city of Agra, Uttar Pradesh.
The Taj Mahal is a magnificent marble mausoleum built by the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal, who passed away during childbirth. Construction of the Taj Mahal began in 1632 and was completed in 1653, employing thousands of artisans, craftsmen, and laborers from across the Mughal Empire and beyond.
Today, visitors to the Taj Mahal can marvel at its stunning architectural beauty and intricate craftsmanship. The monument is renowned for its symmetrical design, intricate marble inlay work, and ornate calligraphy, which adorn its walls and domes. The central dome of the Taj Mahal is flanked by four minarets, while a reflecting pool and lush gardens add to its ethereal beauty.
What makes the Taj Mahal particularly interesting is its rich historical and cultural significance. It is considered one of the finest examples of Mughal architecture and a masterpiece of Islamic art. The Taj Mahal also symbolizes enduring love and devotion, immortalizing the deep affection between Shah Jahan and Mumtaz Mahal for eternity.
Moreover, the Taj Mahal has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing its universal value and importance to humanity. It attracts millions of visitors from around the world each year, who come to admire its beauty, learn about its history, and experience its timeless allure.
In summary, the Taj Mahal is a captivating historic place in India that epitomizes love, beauty, and grandeur. Its exquisite architecture, rich history, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring India's vibrant heritage and architectural marvels.
Describe an interesting historic place.
You should say:
what it is
where it is located
what you can see there now
and explain why this place is interesting.
Sample Answer 2
One of the most intriguing historic places in the world is Machu Picchu, located in the Andes Mountains of Peru.
Machu Picchu is an ancient Incan citadel perched high atop a mountain ridge, overlooking the lush Urubamba Valley below. Built in the 15th century, it served as a royal estate and religious sanctuary for the Incan emperor Pachacuti and his successors.
Today, visitors to Machu Picchu can explore its well-preserved ruins, including temples, palaces, and terraced fields. The site is renowned for its remarkable architectural feats, such as precision-cut stone walls, intricate terracing, and sophisticated water management systems. The iconic Intihuatana stone, believed to have been an astronomical observatory or ritual site, is also a prominent feature of Machu Picchu.
What makes Machu Picchu especially captivating is its enigmatic history and remote location. The citadel remained hidden from the outside world for centuries, concealed by dense vegetation and rugged terrain, until its rediscovery by American explorer Hiram Bingham in 1911. Its remote and inaccessible location has sparked numerous theories and debates about its purpose and significance, adding to its mystique and allure.
Furthermore, Machu Picchu is surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, with panoramic views of mist-shrouded mountains and verdant valleys. Its stunning setting, combined with its rich cultural heritage, makes it a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most iconic and visited archaeological sites in the world.
In summary, Machu Picchu is a remarkable historic place that offers a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Incan civilization and its architectural ingenuity. Its remote location, enigmatic history, and breathtaking scenery make it a truly captivating destination for history enthusiasts, adventurers, and travelers seeking to experience the wonders of the past.