PEOPLE will get the chance to experience a Paisley archaeological gem first-hand for the first time next month.
The Abbey Drain will open its doors so locals can enjoy 15-minute guided tours on the weekend of Saturday, September 8, led by an archaeologist and expert on the drain.
Spaces on the tours are limited, however there will be a whole host of interesting activities inspired by the Abbey Drain available during the Doors Open Days weekend for those unable to take the tour.
The Abbey Drain was first discovered in 1879 and then rediscovered in 1990.
Lorraine Cameron
It’s considered the earliest phases date to between AD 1350 and 1400.
Renfrewshire’s Provost Lorraine Cameron said “The Abbey Drain is located right in the heart of Paisley town centre and is shrouded in mystery to many of us.
“This is a very exciting opportunity to experience it first hand and is perfect for anyone interested in architecture, archaeology and the heritage of Paisley.
“If descending underground isn’t for you, don’t worry as there will still be a range of activities taking place outside the drain for archaeology buffs of all ages to enjoy.”
Rev Alan Birss, minister of Paisley Abbey, said: “The rediscovery of the Abbey’s medieval drain in the early 1990s opened up a fascinating insight into the Abbey’s past.
“Buried in the silt were many objects that our forebears had used and discarded among which the most exciting, possibly, is a fragment of slate with musical notation.
Minister Alan Birss is encouraging people to take in the Drain
“This has been identified as the oldest surviving example of polyphonic music found in Scotland and was probably used in choir training.
“Other fascinating insights into Abbey life come from lead seals indicating that cloth was imported from several cities in Europe and old dice that perhaps suggest that the monks did not spend all their time in prayer!
“The drain itself is a remarkable structure, stone floor, stone vaulted ceiling and in places 2 metres high - this was clearly a drain for a building of considerable prestige and wealth.
“The tour will give people the opportunity to take a step back into the Abbey’s past.
“Having visited the drain, people will then have an opportunity to view some of the finds, including the medieval slate music, in the Abbey’s sacristy and, of course, see the Abbey itself and imagine what it might have been like in days gone by.”
Places on the tours will be allocated by a ballot.
The tour is not suitable for those who have mobility issues, pregnant women, those with a history of heart conditions or claustraphobia.
Children under 12 will also not be allowed on the tour.
Access to the drain is via a manhole and a 15-foot vertical ladder. The ground is not level and standing water of up to four inches exists in places.
For more information visit www.paisley.is
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