Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Eloquently Describe a Famous Historical Building in Your Country

The task of describing a famous historical building is a common topic in IELTS Speaking exams, particularly in Part 2. This subject allows examiners to assess your ability to articulate cultural knowledge, use descriptive language, and express personal opinions. Let’s explore how to excel in this task and achieve a high band score.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In Part 1, the examiner may ask general questions about buildings or history to ease you into the topic. Here are some possible questions:

1. Do you have a favorite building in your hometown?
2. Are there many old buildings where you live?
3. Do you think it’s important to preserve historical buildings?

Let’s look at a sample answer for the third question:

Examiner: Do you think it’s important to preserve historical buildings?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): Absolutely, I believe preserving historical buildings is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, these structures serve as tangible links to our past, allowing us to gain insights into the architectural styles, cultural values, and daily lives of our ancestors. Moreover, they contribute significantly to the unique character and identity of a city or region, setting it apart from other places and attracting tourists. Lastly, I think historical buildings often embody craftsmanship and attention to detail that are rarely seen in modern construction, making them valuable resources for learning and inspiration.

Importance of preserving historical buildings

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to describing a famous historical building:

Describe a famous historical building in your country
You should say:
- What the building is
- Where it is located
- What it looks like
- And explain why this building is famous or important

Now, let’s look at sample answers for different band scores:

Band 6-7 Response:

“I’d like to talk about the Taj Mahal, which is a famous historical monument in India. It’s located in Agra, a city in the northern part of the country. The Taj Mahal is a large white building with a big dome on top and four smaller domes around it. It has beautiful gardens and a long pool in front of it. The building is made of white marble and has intricate designs carved into it.

The Taj Mahal is famous because it was built by an emperor as a tomb for his wife. It’s considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and attracts millions of visitors every year. It’s also a symbol of love and is very important to Indian culture and history.”

Band 8-9 Response:

“I’d like to draw your attention to the Taj Mahal, an iconic historical edifice located in Agra, Uttar Pradesh, in northern India. This architectural marvel stands as a testament to Mughal craftsmanship and is universally acclaimed for its breathtaking beauty.

The Taj Mahal is a mausoleum complex characterized by its distinctive silhouette – a central dome flanked by four smaller domes, creating a symmetrical masterpiece. The structure is crafted entirely from luminous white marble, which seems to change color subtly throughout the day, reflecting the sun’s rays. Its facades are adorned with intricate calligraphy and inlay work, featuring semi-precious stones that form elaborate floral patterns.

This architectural gem is renowned worldwide for several reasons. Firstly, it’s considered the pinnacle of Mughal architecture, blending Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles. Secondly, its construction story – commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan as a memorial for his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal – has cemented its status as a symbol of eternal love. Moreover, the Taj Mahal’s impeccable proportions and the optical illusions incorporated into its design continue to astound architects and visitors alike. Lastly, as a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, it plays a pivotal role in India’s tourism industry, attracting millions of visitors annually and significantly contributing to the local and national economy.”

The Taj Mahal: An architectural marvel

Follow-up questions:

1. How long did it take to build this historical building?
2. Are there any interesting stories or legends associated with it?

Sample answer (Band 8-9):

“The construction of the Taj Mahal was a monumental undertaking that spanned approximately two decades, from 1632 to 1653. This extensive period reflects the sheer scale and intricacy of the project, involving thousands of artisans and workers from various parts of Asia.

As for legends, one of the most intriguing yet controversial stories surrounding the Taj Mahal is the tale of the artisans’ fate after its completion. According to this legend, Emperor Shah Jahan allegedly had the hands of the master craftsmen cut off to ensure they could never create anything as beautiful again. However, it’s important to note that historians generally dismiss this as a myth, as there’s no concrete historical evidence to support it. Another fascinating aspect is the optical illusion of the entrance gate, which makes the Taj appear closer and larger when you’re far away, but smaller as you approach it. This clever architectural trick continues to baffle and amaze visitors to this day.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this part, the examiner will ask more abstract questions related to historical buildings and architecture. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Examiner: How do historical buildings contribute to a country’s identity?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “Historical buildings play a pivotal role in shaping a country’s identity in multiple ways. Firstly, they serve as tangible links to the past, embodying the cultural, social, and political history of a nation. These structures act as silent storytellers, providing insights into the architectural styles, technological advancements, and aesthetic preferences of different eras.

Moreover, historical buildings often become iconic symbols that represent a country on the global stage. For instance, the Eiffel Tower is instantly associated with France, while the Great Wall is synonymous with China. These landmarks not only attract tourists but also foster a sense of national pride among citizens.

Furthermore, the preservation and restoration of historical buildings demonstrate a society’s respect for its heritage and commitment to maintaining cultural continuity. This dedication to preserving the past while moving forward can be a defining characteristic of a nation’s identity.

Lastly, historical buildings often inspire contemporary architecture, creating a unique blend of old and new that reflects a country’s ability to honor its roots while embracing progress. This harmonious coexistence of different architectural styles across time periods contributes to the distinctive character of cities and regions, further solidifying national identity.”

Historical buildings shaping national identity

Examiner: Do you think all historical buildings should be preserved, or should some be replaced with modern structures?

Candidate (Band 8-9 response): “This is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of various factors. On one hand, preserving all historical buildings would be ideal from a cultural heritage perspective. These structures provide invaluable insights into our past and contribute to the unique character of our cities. They also serve as important educational resources and tourist attractions.

However, we must also acknowledge the practical challenges associated with blanket preservation. Some historical buildings may be structurally unsound or unsuitable for modern use, and the cost of restoration and maintenance can be prohibitively expensive. Additionally, in rapidly growing cities, there’s often a pressing need for new infrastructure and housing, which may necessitate the replacement of some older structures.

In my opinion, a balanced approach is necessary. Priority should be given to preserving buildings of significant historical or architectural value. For these, efforts should be made to adapt them for contemporary use while maintaining their integrity. This could involve innovative renovations that blend modern amenities with historical features.

On the other hand, buildings of lesser historical importance could potentially be replaced, but ideally with structures that pay homage to the area’s architectural heritage or incorporate elements of the original building. This approach would allow for urban development while still maintaining a connection to the past.

Ultimately, decisions about preservation versus replacement should involve careful assessment by historians, architects, urban planners, and local communities to ensure that the cultural, historical, and practical needs of a city are balanced appropriately.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To achieve a high band score, it’s crucial to use a range of sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. Here are some key terms and phrases that can elevate your response:

1. Architectural marvel /ˌɑːkɪˈtektʃərəl ˈmɑːvəl/ (noun phrase): A building that is exceptionally beautiful or impressive in its design and construction.
   Example: “The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is considered an architectural marvel due to its unique design and ongoing construction.”

2. Embody /ɪmˈbɒdi/ (verb): To represent or express an idea, quality, or feeling in a clear and obvious way.
   Example: “Gothic cathedrals embody the religious fervor and architectural innovation of medieval Europe.”

3. Cultural heritage /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ (noun phrase): The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes of a group or society that are inherited from past generations.
   Example: “Preserving historical buildings is crucial for maintaining our cultural heritage for future generations.”

4. Innovative renovation /ˈɪnəvətɪv ˌrenəˈveɪʃən/ (noun phrase): A creative and original way of restoring or improving an old building.
   Example: “The innovative renovation of the old factory into a modern art gallery has breathed new life into the neighborhood.”

5. Harmonious coexistence /hɑːˈməʊniəs ˌkəʊɪɡˈzɪstəns/ (noun phrase): A state where different elements or styles exist together in a peaceful and balanced way.
   Example: “The city’s urban planning focuses on creating a harmonious coexistence between historical landmarks and modern skyscrapers.”

Key architectural vocabulary illustrated

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in the IELTS Speaking test, particularly when describing historical buildings:

1. Develop a broad vocabulary related to architecture, history, and culture. This will allow you to describe buildings and their significance more precisely and eloquently.

2. Practice describing buildings in your area, focusing on their appearance, history, and cultural importance. This will help you become more comfortable with the topic.

3. Stay informed about famous historical buildings worldwide. This knowledge can be useful for providing examples and making comparisons.

4. Work on your pronunciation of architectural terms and place names. Clear pronunciation contributes to your overall fluency score.

5. Use a variety of sentence structures to demonstrate your language proficiency. Mix simple and complex sentences, and use appropriate linking words.

6. Express your opinions and support them with reasons and examples. This shows your ability to think critically and communicate ideas effectively.

7. Listen carefully to the examiner’s questions and address all parts of the question in your response. This demonstrates good comprehension skills.

By following these tips and regularly practicing, you can improve your ability to discuss historical buildings and architecture, leading to a higher band score in your IELTS Speaking test.