Adventures in Glasgow

A person visiting Glasgow, Scotland will have the opportunity to enjoy the city's modern flare combined with its historical ambience. Founded by St. Mungo in the 6th century, Glasgow has grown from a medieval town to the largest city in Scotland. What are some of the "must see" places to visit when in Glasgow?

First constructed in the 10th century, Glasgow Cathedral has been destroyed and reconstructed over the centuries. The Lower Church was constructed in the 13th century and after construction of a new building, became a popular burial site for congregation members. Of particular interest in the necropolis is the tomb of St. Mungo who founded the church in the 6th century.

Formerly the site St. Mungo's castle, St. Mungo's Museum of Religious Life and Art offers an extensive collection of artwork and decorative stained glass. This is one of the world's first religious museums and an exorbitant amount of information on various faiths is found here. Each religion is represented in the Gallery of Religious Life as well as information on cultures, including Scotland, and the way religion has impacted them.

Located near Glasgow Cathedral and St. Mungo's Museum of Religious Life and Art, a person will find Provand's Lordship. Built in 1471 as part of St. Nicholas' Hospital, Provand's Lordship is Glasgow's oldest house. The home is furnished via a 1700 style which allows visitors to experience what life was like during this era. Travelers will also find medieval fabric as well as displays on Cathbert Simson, a priest who lived in the home during the 16th century. Adjacent to Provand's Lordship, people can find the St. Nicholas Garden. Started in 1997, a variety of 15th century herbs used for medicine is grown in the garden.

Glasow offers travelers one of the world's richest collections of art and sculpture. A person looking to experience the grandeur of Glasgow's art should look no further than the Burrell Collection. Once owned by Sir William Burrell and his wife Lady Constance Burrell, the collection consists of over 9,000 pieces of medieval and ancient art, porcelain and glass from all over the world.
For an even older look at Glasgow, a person should visit Fossil Grove located in Victoria Park. This Special Scenic Interest site was discovered in 1887. The 330 million year old forest was completely preserved in rock. Travelers can view these ancient trees and tree stumps from April to September.

For those who like walking, Dumbarton Castle is the ideal place to visit. Surrounded by the Leven and Clyde rivers, Dumbarton Castle has been in constant use since the 5th century. The British, Vikings and Germans have all been a part of this historical site. Those who are brave enough to hike the 240 foot incline can also visit the Porticullis Arch and the Guard House, built in the 14th and 16th centuries, respectively.

Near the Clyde River, travelers can visit the People's Palace and Winter Gardens. History buffs will appreciate the variety of painting, photos and artifacts found at the People's Palace. There are also archives and historical information on the premises dating from 1750 to the present. Nature enthusiasts will feel right at home when visiting the Winter Gardens. This Victorian greenhouse is not only home to various tropical plants and exhibitions, but a café as well.

A person who is traveling along Glasgow's Argyle Street should stop by the Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum. The museum has a vast collection of armor with some pieces dating back to the 15th century. Visitors will also find an incomparable display of European art, Scottish artifacts and a variety of historical and archaeological information.

Glasgow is a modern city with an ancient feel. Visitors to this part of Scotland will fall in love with the city's historic and natural beauty.