Mercat Cross, Glasgow Cross, 1 Saltmarket, Glasgow

The Mercat Cross, located at Glasgow Cross on Saltmarket, is a stone monument designed by Edith Burnet Hughes in 1930. It is a variant of other notable crosses, such as those in Edinburgh and Prestonpans. The structure features an octagonal balustraded base with a tall shaft that supports a seated unicorn, reflecting 17th century Scots architectural style. The rock-faced base includes a small chamber and has a roll-moulded doorway on the east side, along with small roll-moulded windows. The polished ashlar basecourse and dressings are complemented by small-paned windows and dummy gunholes. The monument is topped with a heavily corbelled and machicolated parapet that includes a balustrade. The slim octagonal stone shaft culminates in the unicorn, which holds a shield.