Bold Burbant tower, stone-built, stout
Hid right behind the square, had clout.
This rare survivor of the past
In many ways long shadows cast!
It kept its enemies at bay
With Flanders fifteen leagues away!
It dominates the summer sky
With modern cinema nearby.
Ath skyline highlights two church spires:
While St Martin's peals the hours
St. Julian's stares at empty space:
Of erstwhile Giants’ house* – no trace!
Canal** works led to a surprise:
A Gallo-Roman vicus*** thrived
Within a stone’s throw of old Ath:
Jewellery, coins, trade, ships - all that!
An unassuming Hainault town
With just these few sites of renown
Un-touristy and slow of pace
But with a warm and friendly face.
(c) Poet in the woods 2023
* New museum planned for 2024
** known as the Blaton canal - built c. 1865
** discovered in 1975
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