![A visit to Paisley Abbey, Paisley Scotland](https://i0.wp.com/rucksackfoodie.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/img_9912.jpg?w=1200&ssl=1)
While staying in Glasgow, I ventured across the Clyde River to explore Paisley Abbey. Probably THE BEST guided tour I’ve ever taken!
Since as early as the 7th century this has been a sacred site when St Mirin from Ireland established a monastic order. After his death, it was a popular site of pilgrimage and veneration for hundreds of years.It wasn’t until the 12th century that a ‘modern’ priory was established by (the eventual) House of Stewart.
A fascinating history still remains, including Princess Marjory’s remains (Robert The Bruce’s daughter) as well as a few mysteries. The building and grounds have seen MANY changes over the centuries, and fascinating uses as well (such as part of the grounds was leased as a pub and a brothel for example)
If you an extra day to wander a burgh in Scotland, I highly recommend Paisley and the Abbey especially! There is so much to the history of Paisley, much of which is camouflaged by modern ‘progress’, but do some reading – truly worth the brain space!
I recommend you check their calendar before visiting, as they only are open a few days a week for touring and because certain special days of the year they offer an opportunity to tour the medieval tunnels (sewers) and the steeple tower!
under-pew heating AND umbrella holders with drip pans at the end of each pew! there are no buttresses to this abbey roof but they say the architectural out shoots between the upper windows work as the counter balance, the only one of its kind standing in all the world. Princess Marjory’s effigy tomb, notice her flattened nose. For centuries folklore has if you rub her nose it’s good luck.