Erected in 1686, the mercat cross was repaired in 1821-2 and moved to its present site in 1841-2. One column had to be replaced in 1995-6. This is a most impressive mercat cross incorporating very fine carvings. Behind the cross, we are looking down the whole length of the mile long Union Street. The mercat cross is a Category A listed building. Link
The terra cotta statue on Simpson's building for the 'North of Scotland Bank' (1839-42) was by his friend James Giles, and was in appreciation of agricultural improvement in the northeast. It is a representation of the Greek 'mother-earth' goddess Demeter (adopted as Ceres in later Roman mythology).