Buchanan Monument, Killearn

The Buchanan Monument stands in the village of Killearn, Stirling, as a tall grey-sandstone obelisk. It rises thirty-one metres from a square base five-point-eight metres wide. The monument was designed by the 19th-century architect James Craig and built to honour George Buchanan, the philosopher and poet born nearby in 1506. A donation of five guineas from Lord Graham helped pay for the memorial. In 1850 the structure was repaired and restored for continued use. Historic Environment Scotland lists it in the highest category of Scottish listed buildings. Visitors find the obelisk on Balfron Road at the heart of Killearn. The square pedestal supports the slender shaft, creating a striking landmark above the village rooftops.