Fochabers, The Square, Bellie Parish Church, Category A listed church in The Square, Fochabers, Scotland.
Bellie Parish Church is a Category A listed building on The Square in Fochabers featuring neoclassical design with Roman Doric columns and a square clock tower from 1798. The interior contains movable seating instead of fixed pews, modern audio-visual equipment, and a fully equipped community hall.
The church was built between 1795 and 1798 by architect John Baxter, replacing an earlier place of worship for the 4th Duke of Gordon. The structure was part of a broader town plan and marked the modernization of late 18th-century Fochabers.
The stained glass windows installed in 1998 show different religious themes, including growth, harvest, and the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. These modern additions create visual interest against the classical building and help shape the interior character.
The building underwent major renovation in 2010 and now offers a practical layout for contemporary worship. Visitors will find flexible spaces with modern technology and community amenities available for various events.
During the 2010 renovation, the sanctuary was rotated 180 degrees, a remarkable structural change that gave the building new functionality. This dramatic reconfiguration showed how a historic space could adapt to new needs while keeping its classical character.
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