Cowane's Hospital, Category A listed almshouse near Stirling Castle, Scotland.
Cowane's Hospital is a stone building with Dutch-influenced architecture from the 17th century that sits above the medieval Church of the Holy Rude. The structure features a bell tower and crow-step gables, with interiors designed as residential spaces for elderly guild members.
Wealthy merchant John Cowane founded the institution in 1637 with a substantial bequest to support twelve elderly guild members. The building became an important monument to guild organization in Stirling and continues to serve this purpose today.
The building served as a gathering place for merchant guild members who conducted their affairs here for centuries. Today visitors can observe how the guild continues to meet in the historic hall, keeping old trade traditions alive.
The grounds include well-kept gardens and are easily accessible from the town center, with a cafe for refreshments during your visit. Wear comfortable shoes as accessing the building involves some steps, and the elevated location means climbing stairs to reach the main entrance.
A stone statue of John Cowane sits above the entrance and became locally known as 'Auld Staney Breeks' because of its long weathered trousers. Local legend claims the figure springs to life and dances on Hogmanay night when no one is watching.
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