The Pitsligo Aisle

The 'Laird's Loft above the Forbes of Pitsligo Burial Vault in Peathill Kirk. Prior to the Reformation the Great and the good were able to pay for burial in the kirk. This was not permitted after the Reformation when Laird' s were encouraged to build burial vaults in aisles adjacent to the main building. An exquisitely carved pew, with space for the Laird's entire household would have completely filled the Aisle above the vault. The Pitsligo pew, considered to be one of the finest examples of Jacobean woodcarving in Europe, is now housed in the adjacent former parish Church. The front of the pew was elaborately carved with heraldic carvings and ofher devices. It raised the laird above the common people in the body of the kirk and reminded them of his status and history.