Famous for its cotton and silk, at one time Paisley was the largest thread manufacturing centre in the world. The first steam-powered thread mill built in 1826 led the way for expansion into the linen industry. The town has a fine cluniac Abbey Church built in 1163, restored in the 19th century after its destruction by the English in 1307. New industries recently attracted to the area have been as a result of the Hillington Industrial Estate.