The Alien Gargoyle of Paisley Abbey: Scotland’s Strangest Secret

A Medieval Mystery with a Sci-Fi Twist

Tucked into the carved stonework of Paisley Abbey — one of Scotland’s most magnificent ecclesiastical buildings — is something truly bizarre: a grotesque gargoyle that bears an uncanny resemblance to the xenomorph creature from Ridley Scott’s Alien films.

Yes, really.

Close-up of the alien-like gargoyle on Paisley Abbey, showcasing its distinctive features.

Perched high on the 13th-century structure, its long skull, hollow eyes, and gaping jaws are unmistakable. But how did a creature born of 1979 science fiction end up haunting the eaves of a medieval abbey?

The Truth Behind the Legend

The answer isn’t time travel or an elaborate hoax. When Paisley Abbey underwent restoration in the early 1990s, several damaged gargoyles were replaced. The stonemasons commissioned to carve the new grotesques decided to have a bit of fun — and one carved an alien.

It was never meant to cause a stir. But once sharp-eyed locals and visitors began spotting the creature, the image went viral. To this day, it regularly appears on lists of the world’s weirdest gargoyles, often mistaken for ancient work.

What started as a stonemason’s joke has since become one of the Abbey’s biggest attractions.

Paisley Abbey's exterior, a blend of historical architecture and intriguing details.

A Viral Icon Hiding in Plain Sight

Tourists now arrive at Paisley Abbey with their phones ready, asking, “Where’s the alien?” It’s become a rite of passage to find it — and a local point of pride.

More than just a curiosity, the Alien Gargoyle is a brilliant example of how heritage evolves. It reminds us that history isn’t dead — it’s playful, living, and layered.

Some even believe the Alien has helped introduce younger generations to Paisley’s deeper history. Come for the sci-fi gargoyle, stay for the royal tombs, the medieval stories, and the centuries of Scottish history embedded in every stone.

The set of new gargoyles added to Paisley Abbey in 1991, featuring various designs including the alien.

Come See It for Yourself

There’s no substitute for standing beneath the soaring gothic architecture of Paisley Abbey and spotting the Alien Gargoyle with your own eyes.

Our walking tours don’t just show you the gargoyle — we give you the full story. From medieval power struggles to 20th-century stonework secrets, this is one stop on a journey through time.

Join a Paisley Tour and see why the world’s weirdest gargoyle might just be one of Scotland’s coolest hidden gems.