Read and Speak. Круглова М.В. - 77 стр.

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Рубрика:

I. Give your impressions of:

1. the largest plains of Russia; 2. mountain chains and the highest peaks; 3.

Russia’s rivers and lakes.

II. Think and answer.

1. How large is the territory of the Russian Federation?

2. Why does the climate of Russia vary greatly in different parts of the country?

TEXT 4D. MOSCOW, THE CAPITAL OF RUSSIA

Study the following text and answer the questions.

In the early 19

century the prominent Russian historian Nikolay Karamzin said:

«If you want to know Russia go to Moscow.» By the end of the 20

century we have

every reason to repeat these words.

It is the city where every stone breathes history.

Moscow was founded in 1147 by the Prince of Suzdal, Jury Dolgoruky. Although

there were settlements on the site of modern city long before 1147, this was the year

when Moscow was first mentioned in the written records. Moscow has the priority

right to be the capital of the Russian State. Its wise founder built it in the middle of a

densely populated country. It is protected by rivers and a fortress. In the opinion of

many scientists the city will never loose its significance and the leading role in the

development of the country.

Moscow, like ancient Rome, stands on seven hills. The principle is the

Borovitsky, the hill on which the Kremlin stands.

Moscow’s early architecture was simple but expressive. The larger part of the city

was occupied by private houses made of wood. But such city’s structures as fortress

walls, bridges, churches and cathedrals were made of brick and white stone decorated

with ceramic. Eventually these buildings crested Moscow’s architectural image of a

city of white stone.