Paisley and the Gargoyles

Abbey Cl, Paisley PA1 1JG, UK
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Description

It’s a town steeped in history - but here’s a curious landmark you may not know about over in Paisley. The Gothic spires of Paisley Abbey date back to the 12th century - but there’s one gargoyle that stands out from the rest.The original gargoyles stood guard over the church for centuries, but by 1991, when a remodelling took place, many of the 12 medieval creatures had crumbled.In fact, all of them except one had to be destroyed, thanks to water damage. When an Edinburgh stonemasons firm was drafted in to replace the historic gargoyles, they left a cultural nod that is bound to make any film fan’s day - if you can spot it. High above the arched doorways and stained glass sits Paisley’s very own Alien - an ode to the 1979 cult sci-fi film (and the sequels and prequels which followed) - emerging from the stonework. Of course, it could be argued that the gargoyle is his own beast, as no two in the world are ever the same - so it’s possible that the statue is merely influenced by the cult film character. It has also become a bit of a badly kept secret over in Paisley, having become a social media sensation a few years ago.