Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Eloquently Describe a Historic Building You’ve Visited

The topic of describing a historic building is a common one in IELTS Speaking tests. It has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject in future tests. This topic allows examiners to assess your ability to describe places, express opinions, and discuss historical and cultural aspects.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

In this section, the examiner may ask you some general questions about historic buildings. Here’s an example question with a suggested answer:

Question: Do you enjoy visiting historic buildings?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
Absolutely! I find historic buildings fascinating as they offer a unique glimpse into the past. Whenever I visit one, I’m captivated by the architecture and the stories behind the structure. It’s like stepping into a time machine, allowing me to immerse myself in different eras and cultures.

Historic building interior

Describe a public facility that was renovated is another interesting topic that often comes up in IELTS Speaking tests, as it allows candidates to discuss changes in their community.

Part 2: Long Turn

In this section, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic to speak about for 1-2 minutes. Here’s a sample cue card related to the main topic:

Cue Card:

Describe A Historic Building You Have Been To
You should say:

• Where it is
• What it looks like
• What you did there
• And explain why you think this building is important

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):

I’d like to talk about the Taj Mahal, a famous historic building in Agra, India, that I had the chance to visit last year. This iconic monument is located on the right bank of the Yamuna River and is known worldwide for its stunning beauty.

The Taj Mahal is a massive white marble mausoleum that stands out with its distinctive dome and four minarets. The building’s exterior is adorned with intricate carvings and inlaid precious stones, creating a breathtaking sight, especially when it reflects the changing colors of the sky throughout the day.

During my visit, I spent several hours exploring the complex. I marveled at the symmetrical gardens, took numerous photos, and even had a guided tour that provided insights into the building’s history and architectural features.

I believe the Taj Mahal is important because it’s not just a beautiful structure, but also a symbol of love and a testament to Mughal architecture. It showcases the incredible craftsmanship of the time and serves as a reminder of India’s rich cultural heritage. The building’s ability to attract millions of visitors each year also contributes significantly to the local economy and tourism industry.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):

I’d be delighted to share my experience of visiting the awe-inspiring Colosseum in Rome, Italy. This ancient amphitheater, situated in the heart of Rome, stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Roman Empire.

The Colosseum is a colossal elliptical structure constructed primarily of travertine limestone, tuff, and brick-faced concrete. Its most striking feature is the series of arched entrances supported by semi-circular columns, creating a harmonious blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. The remnants of its tiered seating arrangement and the partially preserved arena floor offer a glimpse into its former glory.

During my visit, I was utterly captivated by the sheer scale and historical significance of the building. I immersed myself in a guided tour, which provided invaluable insights into the Colosseum’s construction techniques, its role in Roman society, and the various events it hosted. I also spent time contemplating the lives of the gladiators and spectators who once filled this massive arena, trying to envision the atmosphere during its heyday.

The Colosseum’s importance cannot be overstated. It serves as a tangible link to ancient Roman civilization, offering a window into their engineering prowess, social structures, and cultural practices. Its enduring presence in modern Rome symbolizes the city’s ability to preserve its rich history while evolving with the times. Moreover, the Colosseum continues to inspire architects and artists worldwide, influencing contemporary design and popular culture. Its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World underscores its global significance and ensures its continued preservation for future generations to appreciate and learn from.

Colosseum exterior

Follow-up Questions:

1. What challenges do you think are involved in preserving historic buildings?
2. Do you think it’s important for a country to invest in maintaining its historic buildings? Why or why not?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):

1. Preserving historic buildings comes with several challenges. Firstly, there’s the financial burden of maintenance and restoration, which can be substantial. Secondly, finding the right balance between preservation and modernization can be tricky, as buildings often need to be adapted for contemporary use while maintaining their historical integrity. Lastly, there’s the challenge of protecting these structures from environmental factors and the wear and tear caused by millions of visitors.
2. Absolutely, I believe it’s crucial for countries to invest in maintaining their historic buildings. These structures are tangible links to our past and play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage. They also contribute significantly to tourism, which can be a major economic driver. Moreover, well-preserved historic buildings can inspire future generations and provide valuable insights into architectural and engineering techniques of the past.

Describe an interesting place you visited recently is another topic that allows candidates to showcase their descriptive skills and share personal experiences, much like discussing historic buildings.

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner will ask you more abstract questions related to the topic. Here are some sample questions and answers:

Question: How do you think the role of historic buildings in society has changed over time?

Sample Answer (Band 6-7):
I think the role of historic buildings has evolved significantly. In the past, they were primarily functional structures, serving specific purposes like housing royalty or hosting religious ceremonies. Now, they’ve become more like museums or tourist attractions. They help us learn about history and appreciate different cultures. Also, many historic buildings are now being used for modern purposes, like offices or event venues, which is a big change from their original roles.

Sample Answer (Band 8-9):
The role of historic buildings in society has undergone a profound transformation over time. Initially, these structures served purely functional purposes, be it as residences, places of worship, or centers of governance. However, as societies have evolved, so too has our perception and utilization of these architectural treasures.

In the contemporary context, historic buildings have assumed a multifaceted role. Firstly, they serve as tangible links to our collective past, offering invaluable insights into the social, cultural, and technological aspects of bygone eras. They’ve become repositories of history, allowing us to trace the evolution of architectural styles and construction techniques.

Moreover, many historic buildings have been repurposed to meet modern needs while retaining their historical significance. This adaptive reuse not only ensures the buildings’ continued relevance but also promotes sustainable urban development. For instance, former industrial warehouses transformed into trendy loft apartments or ancient castles converted into luxury hotels.

Perhaps most significantly, historic buildings have become powerful tools for education and cultural preservation. They offer immersive learning experiences, allowing visitors to step back in time and gain a deeper understanding of historical events and ways of life. This educational role extends beyond mere observation, as many historic sites now offer interactive exhibits and reenactments, making history more accessible and engaging for all ages.

Lastly, the economic impact of historic buildings cannot be overlooked. They’ve become major tourist attractions, driving local economies and creating jobs in the tourism and hospitality sectors. This economic potential has, in turn, led to increased efforts in preservation and restoration, ensuring that these architectural marvels continue to captivate and educate future generations.

Historic building restoration

Question: Do you think there’s a risk of losing traditional architectural styles as cities modernize?

Sample Answer (Band 7-8):
Yes, I believe there is a significant risk of losing traditional architectural styles as cities modernize. The rapid pace of urban development often prioritizes efficiency and cost-effectiveness over preserving traditional aesthetics. Many developers opt for modern, uniform designs that can be replicated easily, leading to a homogenization of urban landscapes.

However, I think there’s also a growing awareness of the importance of maintaining architectural heritage. Many cities are now implementing regulations to protect historic districts and encourage new buildings to incorporate elements of traditional styles. This blend of old and new can create unique, characterful cityscapes that honor the past while embracing the future.

The challenge lies in finding the right balance between progress and preservation. It’s crucial to educate people about the value of traditional architecture and to incentivize developers to incorporate traditional elements in their designs. Ultimately, preserving traditional styles while allowing for modernization can create more diverse, culturally rich urban environments.

Describe a cafe you like to visit is another interesting topic that can help candidates practice describing places and their personal preferences.

Key Vocabulary and Phrases

Here are some useful terms and expressions to help you achieve a higher score when discussing historic buildings:

1. Architectural marvel /ˌɑːrkɪˈtektʃərəl ˈmɑːrvəl/ (noun phrase): A building that is considered exceptionally impressive in its design and construction.
   Example: “The Eiffel Tower is an architectural marvel that attracts millions of visitors each year.”
2. Preserve /prɪˈzɜːrv/ (verb): To maintain something in its original or existing state.
   Example: “It’s crucial to preserve historic buildings to maintain our connection with the past.”
3. Restoration /ˌrestəˈreɪʃn/ (noun): The process of repairing and renovating a building to return it to its original condition.
   Example: “The restoration of the ancient temple took several years and cost millions of dollars.”
4. Cultural heritage /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ (noun phrase): The legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes inherited from past generations.
   Example: “Historic buildings are an important part of our cultural heritage.”
5. Iconic /aɪˈkɒnɪk/ (adjective): Very famous or popular, especially being considered to represent particular opinions or a particular time.
   Example: “The Sydney Opera House is an iconic building that symbolizes modern Australia.”

Describe a place where you would like to live or work temporarily is another topic that can help candidates practice their descriptive skills and talk about their preferences and aspirations.

Examiner’s Advice

To achieve a high score in the IELTS Speaking test when discussing historic buildings:

1. Use a range of vocabulary: Incorporate specific architectural terms and descriptive language to showcase your lexical resource.
2. Provide detailed descriptions: When describing a building, go beyond just its appearance. Discuss its history, significance, and how it made you feel.
3. Express and justify opinions: Don’t just state facts. Share your thoughts on the importance of historic buildings and support your views with reasons.
4. Use a variety of grammatical structures: Demonstrate your language proficiency by using a mix of simple and complex sentences, conditionals, and different tenses.
5. Practice fluency: Work on speaking smoothly and naturally, without long pauses or hesitations. Regular practice with topics like this can help improve your fluency.
6. Develop your ideas: In Part 3, try to give extended answers that explore different aspects of the topic. This shows your ability to think critically and express complex ideas in English.

Remember, the key to success in the IELTS Speaking test is not just about knowing the topic, but also about effectively communicating your thoughts and experiences in English.

Describe a place you visited on vacation is another excellent topic for practicing descriptive language and sharing personal experiences, which are crucial skills for the IELTS Speaking test.