15. Read the text and choose the best answer. Vladimir became one of the main centres of north-eastern Rus in the 12th century. Prince Andrey Bogolyubsky made the city stronger and more important. During his rule, several famous buildings appeared in Vladimir. Today these monuments are still an important part of the historic city. The Golden Gate was one of the main entrances to Vladimir. It also helped to protect the city, so it had both a practical and a symbolic role. The Assumption Cathedral had another function. It became an important religious centre. It also showed that Vladimir was becoming more important in the political life of Rus. The Church of the Intercession on the Nerl was built outside the city, near the river. Today it is a famous example of medieval Russian white-stone architecture. These buildings had different purposes. However, together they can tell us a lot about life in medieval Vladimir. The Golden Gate shows how people protected the city. The churches show the important role of religion. They also show how rulers used beautiful buildings to show the importance of their city and land. Today these monuments are protected as part of Russia’s cultural heritage. Many visitors come to see their beauty, but the buildings are important for more than their appearance. They help us understand how people lived in medieval Vladimir. We can see the importance of defence, religion and political power in the city. The monuments also connect modern Vladimir with its long history. 15.1. Why are the monuments from Prince Andrey’s time still important for Vladimir today? A. They show Vladimir was mainly a military place. B. They explain why some churches stood far from the centre. C. They help the city keep its historic character. D. They show the buildings were used in similar ways. 15.2. What was special about the role of the Golden Gate? A. It defended the city and was also an important symbol. B. It was Russia’s best-known stone building.

Перевод задания: Прочитайте текст и выберите лучший ответ. 15.1. Почему памятники времён князя Андрея до сих пор важны для Владимира? 15.2. Что было особенного в роли Золотых ворот?

15.1. C. They help the city keep its historic character.

Памятники являются частью культурного наследия, помогают понять историю города и связывают современный Владимир с его прошлым.

15.2. A. It defended the city and was also an important symbol.

В тексте сказано, что Золотые ворота служили главным въездом и помогали защищать город, а также имели символическое значение.

Ответ: 15.1 — C; 15.2 — A.

Перевод ответа: 15.1. Они помогают городу сохранять его исторический облик. 15.2. Они защищали город и одновременно были важным символом.