Washington, D.C.

Washington has been the capital of the United States since 1880. The city is not a part of any State. It is an independent territory, the official name of which is the District of Columbia. In order not to mix up the city with the state that also has the name of Washington, American residents very often use the abbreviation DC or Washington DC talking about the capital. The city was named after the 1-st President of the United States and has not changed its name since then. Today, Washington is one of the most beautiful cities in America with its historical monuments, museums, architectural structures, beautiful parks, libraries and churches. Among the main attractions, the White House is a must-visit as it is the only presidential residence in the world that is open for visitors. In the center of Washington there is the site of the National Mall, where you can see the Washington Monument, the marble obelisk of 169 meters height, and the memorial to another American leader - Abraham Lincoln. The Museum of American history is located very close to it. And lovers of historical documents should visit the National Archives, where you can find the «sacred» for Americans state papers: The American Constitution, The Bill of rights, and The Independence Declaration. You can take a break from memorials and galleries by walking around one of the capital's cozy parks or by visiting the Foggy Bottom area, popular among music and ballet lovers. Georgetown will suit for the fans of cultural, entertainment and night life, noisy fun here is pleasantly combined with comfort and peace.