Gargoyle on Scottish church looks like figure from Alien films

The gargoyle, affixed to Paisley Abbey, frequently appears on social media, with images circulating on Instagram (link), X (link), and Reddit (link), as well as in numerous YouTube videos (link) discussing its origins.

The role of gargoyles in church architecture

Historically, gargoyles – known in German as Wasserspeier (water spitters) – served a practical function. Before modern drainage systems, rainwater had to be directed off large buildings. To prevent water from running down façades, churches incorporated pipes made of metal or stone, often concealed behind sculpted figures.

In Gothic architecture, common across European churches, gargoyles frequently depicted demons, animals, mythical creatures, or underworld beings. These figures were believed to ward off evil, acting as a symbolic deterrent by reflecting malevolence back upon itself.

A Xenomorph gargoyle? Coincidence, premonition, or intentional design?

Let's go back to Paisley Abbey. The widely shared images of the Xenomorph-like figure at Paisley Abbey are real, though the sculpture itself is much younger than the church. In 1991, restoration work was carried out on the abbey, during which 12 of its 13 gargoyles were replaced due to water damage. According to Paisley Heritage, the new gargoyles were designed by David Lindsay, a specialist in stone restoration.

The restoration company provided 20 design sketches, all unique and largely inspired by the 20th century. In an article for Stirling City Heritage Trust, Lindsay revealed that he was a fan of Ridley Scott's 1979 film Alien and took inspiration from the Xenomorph designed by Swiss artist H.R. Giger. He was surprised when his design was among those approved by the client.

Paisley Abbey's unusual gargoyle is both a nod to pop culture and a fully-functioning architectural feature. While its design may be modern, its purpose remains unchanged: directing rainwater away from the building's roof.