Paisley Abbey, Medieval church building in Paisley, Scotland
Paisley Abbey is a medieval church in Paisley, Scotland, combining nave, restored transepts, choir sections, and stained glass windows from different eras. The stone walls rise above a cruciform floor plan and show columns with capitals as well as colored glass windows along the side aisles.
Walter FitzAlan brought thirteen monks from Much Wenlock here in 1163 and founded the religious center that later became a main seat of the High Stewards. Reconstructions and restorations followed over the centuries and changed parts of the complex repeatedly.
The place takes its name from the High Stewards who served Scottish kings and whose burial monuments remain visible inside. Visitors see these royal ancestors' memorials alongside stonework from several centuries carved into the pillars and arches.
The place opens Monday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with guided tours available on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. Visitors can explore the interior freely and should watch for varying floor levels.
Underground passages from the period between 1350 and 1400, known as the Paisley Abbey Drain, still carry stonemason marks on their walls today. In these corridors you can also find remains of medieval gates from that era.
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