Cue Cards Samples with band 8 answers
Describe a historic place you have visited - Cue Card # 10
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IELTS Speaking Part 2: IELTS Cue Card/ Candidate Task Card.
[The topic for your talk will be written on a card which the examiner will hand over to you. Read it carefully and then make some brief notes.]
Describe a historic place you have visited.
You should say:
- what this historic place is
- where it is located
- what is the significance of the place
and describe your experience of visiting this historic place.
[Instruction: You will have to talk about the topic for one to two minutes. You have one minute to think about what you are going to say. You can make some notes to help you if you wish.]
Model Answer 1:
I love to visit popular places whenever I have free time, and historic places have a special appeal to me. Fortunately, I've visited a few historic places including Machu Picchu in Peru, The Pyramids at Giza, the Taj Mahal in India, and the Parthenon in Greece. The historic significance and the grandeur of these places mesmerise me, and I crave to visit such places even more! The place that I'd like to talk about today is the Colosseum (also known as the Coliseum, or the Flavian Amphitheatre) which is situated in Rome, Italy.
The Colosseum is an elliptical amphitheatre in the centre of Rome, which is the largest amphitheatre in the world and is made of concrete and stone. The construction of the Colosseum began under Emperor Vespasian in 70 AD and was completed under Titus in 80 AD. It is 189 meters long, and 156 meters wide, with a base area of 6 acres. The height of the outer wall is 48 meters.
The Colosseum could hold approximately 50,000 to 80,000 spectators at the time when it was used as an amphitheatre. Perhaps it is well-known for its use in "gladiatorial contests" and public spectacles such as mock sea battles, animal hunts, executions, and re-enactments of many famous battles. The Colosseum was listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1980 and included among the New Seven Wonders of the World. The Colosseum nowadays is one of the major tourist attractions in Rome with thousands of tourists each year paying to view the interior arena.
I have heard a lot and read about this famous place throughout my childhood and teenage years. However, when I witnessed it for the first time when I visited Rome with my family back in 2018, I became speechless. The intricate and mind-blowing architecture, overwhelming interior and exterior, the awe-inspiring size and its grandeur witness of history were beyond appreciation. It was like a dream come true for me. The place kept reminding me of the classical, mythological, and historical facts I have read and heard about. Visiting this site was like travelling to the past in a time-travelling spaceship! I would always like to return there due to its prominence in history and incredible appeal.
Model Answer 2:
Being a “Bangladeshi”, I take pride in much of the historical heritage of my country, including several historical places, which have carried a very rich and eventful past of my country for centuries. Today, I would like to talk about one such historical place, called “Panam City”, which is unique in every "true sense".
“Panam City” sits in the city of “Sonargaon”, located about 29 kilometres north of the capital “Dhaka”. Covering an area of almost 20 kilometres, “Panam City” once used to be the capital of the 15th century “Bengal” and thrived as the major inland port and centre of commerce and politics. Later in the 17th and 18th centuries, it also became the centre of trade for “muslin” (a special but “plain weave” of fine cotton fabric which was very popular in the European market, the Middle East and other markets all over the world for its “very special quality”).
The “lost city”, as it is called by many and is also known to be the only abandoned city of its kind in the whole world, has about 50+ old houses on the same street. But, even though the houses are centuries old, they still bear the regal signs on their ancient walls, bricks and the terracotta on the black stones. Another very significant and unique aspect of this “lost city” is that it marked the end of the line of the “Grand Trunk Road”, one of Asia’s oldest and longest major roads, which had linked the Indian subcontinent with Central Asia for almost 2500 years.
Anyway, as I was strolling through the “old ruins” of one of the most distinguished cities of the “old world”, I couldn’t help but feel both the energy and aristocracy sustained from a very “bustling city” of a bygone era. Besides, the medieval houses and monuments under the sunny weather looked like they had a lot of stories to share with us if only they could talk, and we had time to listen and learn from the past that nothing really lasts forever.
Sample Answer 3:
Introduction:
Thank you very much for giving me a chance to talk about a historic place I’ve visited. Well, I feel fortunate to have explored several culturally significant sites in my country, and one that left a strong impression on me is the Imperial City of Huế in Vietnam. Today, I will share my experience of visiting this place with you.
What this historic place is:
The Imperial City of Huế is a walled fortress and palace complex that was once the capital of Vietnam during the Nguyễn Dynasty. It is a vast site with ancient gates, temples, royal tombs, and monuments that showcase the grandeur and legacy of Vietnam’s last royal family.
Where it is located:
This historic site is located in the city of Huế, in central Vietnam. It sits along the banks of the Perfume River and is one of the most visited tourist destinations in the country due to its rich heritage and majestic architecture.
What is the significance of the place:
The Imperial City holds immense historical and cultural value. It was the political, cultural, and religious centre of the Nguyễn Dynasty, which ruled from the early 1800s to the mid-1900s. The complex reflects a unique blend of Vietnamese design and Chinese influence. It is also recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, symbolising Vietnam's royal past and national identity.
And describe your experience of visiting this historic place:
I visited the Imperial City last year during a short holiday with my family. Walking through the vast courtyards and exploring the ancient buildings felt like stepping back in time. I was especially captivated by the Ngo Mon Gate and the Thai Hoa Palace, which had beautifully intricate woodwork and faded but elegant colours. The atmosphere was peaceful and reflective, despite the fact that parts of the city were damaged during the wars. Learning about the royal rituals, traditions, and architecture gave me a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history. It was both an educational and emotional experience, and I truly admired the effort that has gone into preserving such a significant part of our national heritage.
Idea generation for this Candidate task card / Cue card topic:
Below is a list of historically important places from around the world that you can talk about in your cue card answer. Each example includes detailed descriptions, significance, and a narrative-style personal experience to help expand your ideas naturally.
1. The Colosseum – Rome, Italy:
The Colosseum is an ancient amphitheatre built nearly 2,000 years ago during the Roman Empire. It once hosted gladiator fights and public spectacles. When I visited it with friends, I was amazed by how grand and iconic it looked. Standing in the middle of the arena made me imagine the roaring crowd and fierce battles of ancient times.
2. The Great Wall – China:
This incredible structure stretches over 13,000 miles and was originally built to protect the Chinese empire from invasions. I walked along a section near Beijing and was struck by its endlessness. The steep climbs were challenging, but the views of the surrounding hills were unforgettable.
3. The Taj Mahal – Agra, India:
Built in the 17th century by Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, the Taj Mahal is a symbol of eternal love. During my visit at sunrise, the white marble glowed softly. The intricate carvings and the story behind its construction moved me deeply.
4. The Eiffel Tower – Paris, France:
Completed in 1889, the Eiffel Tower is a symbol of French elegance and modernity. I visited it with my sister and ascended to the top. The views of Paris from above were mesmerising, and watching the sunset from there was magical.
5. The Acropolis – Athens, Greece:
Home to the Parthenon, the Acropolis represents the birthplace of Western democracy. I visited it during a cultural tour and was fascinated by the ruins. The marble structures and their historical significance left a deep impression on me.
6. Angkor Wat – Siem Reap, Cambodia:
Originally a Hindu temple, Angkor Wat is the world’s largest religious monument. I watched the sunrise over its towers and explored its carvings. The spiritual atmosphere and detailed architecture made the experience unforgettable.
7. Machu Picchu – Peru:
This Incan city sits high in the Andes. I hiked the Inca Trail and entered through the Sun Gate. Seeing the ruins for the first time felt surreal. The terraced fields and sacred temples told stories of a lost civilisation.
8. Petra – Jordan:
Carved into rose-coloured rock, Petra is known as the “Rose City.” Walking through the Siq and seeing the Treasury appear was like stepping into a movie. The ancient tombs and temples made it feel like a place frozen in time.
9. Hiroshima Peace Memorial – Japan:
Also known as the Genbaku Dome, it stands as a symbol of peace. I visited the Peace Memorial Museum and was deeply moved by the personal stories of those affected by the atomic bombing. It’s a place that reminds visitors of the importance of peace.
10. Alhambra – Granada, Spain:
This palace-fortress complex showcases Moorish architecture at its best. I walked through its courtyards and gardens, admiring the intricate tilework. The view of Granada from the fortress was breathtaking.
11. Independence Hall – Philadelphia, USA:
Where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were signed. I visited as part of a history tour and was amazed to stand in the room where key decisions were made. The guide brought the revolutionary period to life.
12. The Pyramids of Giza – Egypt:
These iconic pyramids are over 4,500 years old. I took a camel ride near the Sphinx and explored the Great Pyramid. The scale and mystery of the pyramids were awe-inspiring, making me marvel at ancient Egyptian engineering.
13. The Tower of London – UK:
This fortress once served as a royal palace and prison. I joined a Beefeater tour and learned about its grim history. Seeing the Crown Jewels and the ancient architecture was fascinating.
14. Red Fort – Delhi, India:
A magnificent example of Mughal architecture, this fort is symbolic of India’s independence. I visited during Independence Day celebrations. The patriotic atmosphere and light show in the evening made it a memorable visit.
15. Fort York – Canada:
Fort York is a historic military site located in Toronto, Ontario. It was established in the late 18th century to defend the city, particularly during the War of 1812. The site contains original buildings, cannons, and exhibits about Canadian military history. I visited this site during a school field trip, and it felt surreal to walk through the actual grounds where battles once took place. The costumed guides and interactive exhibits made it a memorable experience.
16. My Son Sanctuary – Vietnam:
My Son Sanctuary is a group of abandoned Hindu temples built between the 4th and 14th centuries by the Champa civilisation. It is located in Quang Nam Province, in central Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the ancient architecture, art, and spirituality of early Vietnamese civilisation. I visited the site last year and was amazed by the intricate carvings and the peaceful atmosphere surrounding the ruins.
17. Lahore Fort – Pakistan:
The Lahore Fort, also known as Shahi Qila, is a grand fortress built during the Mughal Empire in the heart of Lahore, Punjab. It is an iconic symbol of Mughal architecture and is famous for its Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors), Alamgiri Gate, and intricate wall art. I went there on a school trip and was mesmerised by the grandeur of the buildings. The guided tour gave us a detailed understanding of the fort’s historical and cultural relevance.
18. Registan Square – Uzbekistan:
Registan Square in Samarkand is one of the most breathtaking historic sites in Central Asia. Surrounded by three massive madrasahs with majestic tilework and domes, this square was once the heart of the Timurid Empire. I visited Registan during a cultural tour and was completely awestruck by the scale and artistry of the architecture. The blue domes, mosaic tiles, and Persian calligraphy gave me a deeper appreciation of Islamic and Central Asian heritage.
Model Answer 4:
One of the most fascinating historic places I’ve ever had the chance to visit is the Taj Mahal, which is located in Agra, a city in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh. As an Indian, I feel proud to be able to describe this historic place, and I would like to thank you for the opportunity to talk about it.
The Taj Mahal is not only a symbol of India's rich architectural heritage but also a timeless emblem of love and devotion. It was built in the 17th century by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, in memory of his beloved wife Mumtaz Mahal, who died during childbirth. Constructed entirely out of white marble, the monument is a brilliant example of Mughal architecture, blending elements of Persian, Islamic, and Indian styles. It has also been recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, attracting millions of tourists every year.
My visit to the Taj Mahal was part of a cultural tour of northern India. The moment I caught my first glimpse of the monument, especially during sunrise when the soft golden light bathed the white marble in a warm glow, I was completely spellbound. The symmetry of the structure, the intricate floral carvings, and the reflection in the long pool that runs through the garden made it look almost surreal. I took a guided tour, which gave me deep insight into the history, architectural techniques, and the love story behind the structure. Standing in front of such a majestic piece of history gave me goosebumps and filled me with awe.
What made the experience even more memorable was the atmosphere. Despite the number of tourists, there was a sense of calm and reverence that surrounded the place. I found myself lost in thought, reflecting on how something so beautiful could be born out of grief and love. It was not just a visit to a historical monument; it was an emotional and cultural journey that made a lasting impression on me.
Model Answer 5:
I had an enriching opportunity to visit the historic site of Machu Picchu, nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. This ancient Incan citadel is renowned for its architectural marvels and breathtaking vistas. For this topic, I would like to share my experience of visiting this place.
Machu Picchu offers a mesmerising panorama of well-preserved stone structures, including temples, terraces, and plazas that showcase the advanced engineering skills of the Inca civilisation. The intricately crafted stone walls, with precision-fitted blocks, stand as a testament to the ingenuity of the Incan architects.
What captivated me the most during my visit was the Intihuatana stone, a ritual stone associated with astronomy and believed to hold spiritual significance. Standing before this ancient relic, I could feel a palpable connection to the past, imagining the ceremonies and daily life of the people who once inhabited this awe-inspiring site.
Exploring Machu Picchu was an emotional and reflective experience. The grandeur of the landscape, coupled with the profound historical significance of the site, evoked a sense of reverence and admiration. Standing at the Sun Gate and witnessing the sunrise over the vast Andean mountains, I couldn't help but marvel at the resilience and vision of the ancient civilisation that created such a remarkable marvel. Being at Machu Picchu was also a humbling and spiritually uplifting encounter. The sheer magnitude of history embedded in the stones, coupled with the natural beauty that surrounded it, made this visit a truly unforgettable journey through time.
Tips for answering this cue card topic:
This topic is somewhat different from the topic 'Describe a historic place you know about'. When you are asked to describe a historic place you know about, you can pick any famous historic place from anywhere in the world that you may or may not have visited. You do not need to visit a place to know about it - you can read about it, watch it on TV or learn about it from school. But when you are asked to describe a historic place you have visited, you are expected to pick a historically significant place that you have visited and can describe from personal experience.
Please do not pick a place which has very little historical significance or the places that store historical artefacts but not itself is a historic place. For instance, you can learn a lot about history from a museum or a library but the museum or the library is not a historic place - unless, of course, those places have something special to relate to history!
A historic place can be part of national history or international history. For instance, some places in your country may be a part of the history of your country but not well-known to the world. So you can pick such a nationally recognised historic place as well. Also, note, there is a subtle difference between a famous place and a historic place. A place or landmark has to be qualified and registered as a historic place by historians.
Don't pick a broad area or a whole city as a historic place, rather choose a particular place. For instance, there are many historic places in Rome like the Colosseum, the Pantheon, St Peter's Basilica etc., and, if you pick Rome as a historic place, you won't be able to cover all the historical significance of this city. Alternatively, picking only the Colosseum or the Pantheon would give you a better opportunity to describe it more thoroughly making your answer more coherent and accurate.
Part 3: Details Discussion:
Q. How popular are historic places among visitors in your country compared to other tourist spots?
Answer: Well, historic places in my country are extremely popular among both local and international visitors. People often appreciate these sites because they provide insights into our rich cultural heritage and significant historical events. However, while historic sites attract many tourists, natural attractions like beaches, mountains, and national parks sometimes draw larger crowds, especially during holidays. Overall, I would say historic locations hold their own appeal, but the popularity often varies depending on the season and the interests of individual tourists.
Q. Should entry fees to such historic places be free for visitors? [Why/ Why not?]
Answer: Personally, I believe that entry to historic places should ideally be free or at least very affordable, primarily because these sites are part of our shared cultural heritage, and everyone deserves the opportunity to explore and appreciate them. Free entry encourages more visitors, enhances public interest in history, and promotes cultural education. However, I also understand that some nominal fees might be necessary to maintain and preserve these places. Perhaps a good balance could be achieved by making entry free on certain days or for students and senior citizens, ensuring accessibility while still supporting the preservation of these sites.
Q. What do you think of the future trend of historic places?
Answer: This is somewhat difficult to answer, I guess, as the future is often unpredictable. Many people believe that historic places should be preserved because they depict a country's overall tradition and history. These places constitute an integral part of a nation's history, culture and heritage. On the other hand, others disagree with that. I think some historic places would be retained for usage, if possible, or for posterity in the future. However, the future is uncertain and often depends on the decisions of political leaders and powerful people. However, I believe that some significant historical places will become more important and preserved more carefully in the future. As a result, more tourists will be interested in visiting such places.
Q. Will the government strengthen its protection of historic places in the future? [Why/ Why not?]
Answer: I can't really know for sure, but I would say that these places must be protected no matter what. As mentioned, historic places reflect a country's history and culture and they are a nation's brand. To illustrate, Greek authorities make significant efforts to preserve and renovate the structure of the Acropolis and every year they perform programmes for the restoration of the Hill. They also work to make different monuments approachable and accessible to tourists while maintaining their initial identity and structural designs. So I believe, governments, all over the world, would be more careful to preserve and protect important historic sites.
Q. What are the changes brought about by the historic place in the local economy and people?
Answer: When I think of changes brought by historic places, the first thing that comes to my mind is 'benefits'. Firstly, these places provide employment and income to many people, not only in some particular seasons with many tourists but also throughout the year. In addition, as these places are famous and a country is characterised by those, locals and foreign visitors will pay them a visit, and this results in the popularity of the country. Furthermore, as a result of these visits, the whole economy will develop and these countries will flourish and prosper. Local people will learn about diverse cultural aspects of those historic places and be able to present their own cultures and customs to visitors.
Q. What is the effect of tourists to such a place?
Answer: The influx of tourists to these places might lead to both positive and negative consequences. Visitors would help create more jobs among the local people and help raise the budget for the government. Through the internet and social media, those tourists will share photos and videos of their activities and their friends and families will learn about those places- thus creating a snowball effect on incoming tourists and revenue from this sector. Not to mention, the growing number of tourists increases the business and employment opportunities in the local area.
Apart from the beneficial aspects, there are some negative implications as well. As these places are very crowded with a tremendous number of visitors, they become less tidy. It is not uncommon that foreign customs and culture brought by tourists often threaten the local culture and the way of life.
[Part 3 answers are written by Mary, UK]
Vocabulary for this Candidate Task Card / Cue Card topic:
To describe a historic place effectively, you should be familiar with relevant words and phrases that capture the importance, features, and your impressions of such a place. Here are some useful vocabulary terms and phrases you can use:
Words related to historic places:
- Heritage site
- Monumental architecture
- Ancient ruins
- Cultural landmark
- Historical significance
- UNESCO World Heritage site
- Preservation efforts
- Archaeological discovery
- Architectural marvel
- Iconic landmark
Words describing historical significance:
- Symbolic importance
- Turning point
- Historic events
- Rich heritage
- Legacy
- Ancient civilization
- National pride
- Time-honored traditions
- Landmark event
- Historical narrative
Words expressing personal experiences:
- Awe-inspiring
- Mesmerizing experience
- Sense of wonder
- Immersive
- Captivating atmosphere
- Nostalgic feeling
- Eye-opening
- Memorable encounter
- Profound impact
- Culturally enriching
With your ability to answer the cue card topic "Describe a historic place you have visited", you should be able to answer the following cue card topics as well:
1. Describe a place you have recently visited.
2. Describe a worth visiting place you know about.
3. Describe a place you would recommend others to visit.
4. Describe a famous place in your country.
5. Describe a place you have planned to visit in the future.
6. Describe a crowded place you have been to.
7. Describe a place you visited that has a strong impression on you.
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