IELTS Speaking Part 2: Describe a historical building you have been to

Describe a historical building you have been to
You should say:
Where it is
What it looks like
What it is used for now
What you learned there
And explain how you felt about this historical building

Useful Vocabulary and Expressions

1. Where it is:

• Vocabulary: located, situated, nestled, positioned, found
• Expressions:
  • “The building is located in…”
  • “It is situated in the heart of…”
  • “You can find this historical site in…”

2. What it looks like:

• Vocabulary: architectural, facade, intricate, majestic, imposing
• Expressions:
  • “The building features…”
  • “It is characterized by…”
  • “One of its most striking features is…”

3. What it is used for now:

• Vocabulary: museum, cultural center, tourist attraction, exhibition hall, educational purposes
• Expressions:
  • “Currently, it serves as…”
  • “Nowadays, it is used for…”
  • “It has been repurposed into…”

4. What you learned there:

• Vocabulary: history, heritage, significance, architecture, legacy
• Expressions:
  • “I learned about…”
  • “It provided insights into…”
  • “I gained a deeper understanding of…”

5. How you felt about this historical building:

• Vocabulary: awe-inspiring, fascinating, enriching, profound, reflective
• Expressions:
  • “I felt a sense of…”
  • “The experience was…”
  • “It left me feeling…”

Collocations

1. architectural marvel
2. intricate details
3. rich history
4. cultural significance
5. educational purposes
6. striking features
7. historical significance
8. awe-inspiring beauty
9. fascinating insights
10. profound impact

Sample Answer

The building I am referring to is the Colosseum, located in Rome, Italy. It is situated in the heart of the city and is one of the most iconic symbols of ancient Roman architecture. The Colosseum features an imposing facade with intricate details that reflect its historical grandeur. One of its most striking features is the series of arches and columns that encircle the structure, giving it a majestic appearance.

Currently, it serves as a major tourist attraction and is used for educational purposes. Visitors from all over the world come to explore its rich history and to learn about the gladiatorial contests and public spectacles that once took place there. It has been repurposed into a site where people can gain insights into the cultural significance of the Roman Empire.

I learned about the legacy of the Colosseum and its role in ancient Roman society. It provided insights into the architectural ingenuity and the social dynamics of the time. I gained a deeper understanding of how such a massive structure was built and the purposes it served.

I felt a sense of awe and wonder while visiting this awe-inspiring building. The experience was truly enriching, and it left me feeling reflective about the profound impact of history on modern civilization. The fascinating insights I gained made me appreciate the historical significance of the Colosseum even more, and it was an unforgettable experience.