LONG before its stylish reinvention as a home for visual artists and cultural organisations, The Briggait was buzzing with activity of a different kind – it was the city’s biggest fishmarket.

Our photo from the archives was taken in 1965, when merchants like A Ritchie were in full flow selling their wares.

Built around 1872, this A-listed historic Merchant City landmark included a sculpted portrait of Queen Victoria, flanked by seahorses and medallion heads representing Neptune and the River Clyde.

It’s been described by Historic Environment Scotland as ‘Scotland’s most important collection of surviving market halls’.

Above it rises the Gothic Briggait steeple – which dates back to 1665. It was originally attached to Merchants’ House, which was built on the site in 1601 as a meeting place and as a ‘hospital’ for those merchants and their families who had fallen on hard times.

It is believed the original structure was damaged in the great fire of 1652 which spread from the cross through the Saltmarket. In 1663 the council recommended “a clock and a peal of bells” should be put in the steeple with the town’s arms on the bells. It became a civic timepiece and lookout for merchants who were awaiting the arrival of cargo.