Alcuin's Description of York

My mind prepares to proclaim the praises of my homeland

And to briefly expound the ancient origins of the famous city of York in fine verse.

Roman power first founded this great city with its walls and towers

Summoning as partners and companions in the labour only the native British peoples.

For at that time fertile Britain endured Romans as kings.

They deservedly used to hold sway over the world

So that York would be an emporium for trade by land and sea alike,

At once a sure stronghold of the kingdom for its rulers,

A glory of their rule and a terror to hostile weapons:

Safe for ocean ships coming from the farthest ports,

To there the sea-weary sailor hastens, now makes fast the prow with its long tow-rope.

The Ouse, filled with fish, flows through York with its waters,

Its banks stretching past flowery fields on both sides.

And hills and forests beautify the earth

And make a lovely dwelling-place, whose health

And richness soon will fill it full of men.

The best of realms and people round came there

In hope of gain, to seek in that rich earth

For riches, there to make both home and gain.

Alcuin of York (c. 735-804)