2013公共英语阅读范文及译文1
2013公共英语阅读范文及译文1
Washington, D.C. serves as the seat of government for the United States of American. Over the 200 years, Washington, D.C. has grown with the nation, and it now represents the very best of America. From its majestic monuments to its incomparable museums, from the Mall to the steps of the Capital, Washington offers visitors one-of-a-kind attractions.
The majestic capital building stands at the center of the city, allowing unobstructed views of the city’s most famous attractions. The immense open space of the Mall is marked off by the various museums of the Smithsonian Institution, the largest cluster of museums in the world. The national Air and Space Museum celebrates the nation’s achievements in flight and space exploration, from the Wright brother’s first biplane to the Apollo moon mission and beyond. Visitors also line up for the Natural History Museum to learn about the sciences and to view the famous Hope Diamond. The Smithsonian Institution also includes the world-famous galleries. Art lovers should also appreciate the nearby National Portrait Gallery and National Museum of American Art.
Looking past the Mall, the Washington Monument stands 505 feet above the city. It was the tallest man-made structure in America from its completion until the early 1900’s. Behind this monument are the reflecting pool and the trio of memorials dedicated to remembering President Lincoln and the wounded and killed of the Vietnam and Korean conflicts. New to the area of the tidal basin, and facing the Jefferson Memorial, a memorial to Franklin Roosevelt lies on the Potomac River which hosts millions of visitors each year.
The offices of the various government agencies take up most of the space of the city, and most offer free tours to the public. The White House also offers free tours to the public. Just outside of the city, the national zoo houses thousands of animals on 163 acres of park. Among its residents are two giant pandas given to the United States as gifts from the People’s Republic of China. Across the river in Arlington, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier stands amidst the dim, grave and majestic Arlington National Cemetery.
Washington has many other distractions from politics. Washington’s theatre life is thriving; it is second only to New York in number of theatre seats. The National Symphony and other musical companies play four schedules. As a temporary home to diplomats from around the world, Washington’s restaurant offerings are the finest and most diverse around.
The beauty and grandeur of the nation’s capital continue to captivate millions of American and foreign tourists who visit Washington, D.C. each year.
