History of Aberdeen

Aberdeen is located between two rivers, the Don to the north and the Dee to the south. Facing the North Sea, it is backed by a lush hinterland which has brought great riches to the city since oil was discovered in the early 1970s. The name Aberdeen is thought to derive from the word aber (mouth of the river) Don. Aberdeen is believed to have been founded by the eighth century AD as a fishing village.

Building the citys riches

Its naval history can be traced back to its establishment as a Royal Burgh in 1124. Aberdeen enjoyed strong trading links in the past with Scandinavia and the Low Countries. Quick clipper ships, which brought back tea from India and other produce from around the world, were built in the city. Until a few years after WWII, Aberdeens livelihood was fishing and shipping. The countrys biggest fish market, it still hauls substantial catches. With the discovery of North Sea oil and gas, Aberdeen grew rapidly, showing off its new-found prosperity with an almost tasteless zeal. Even though the boom years of the early 1980s have gone, the city still gives off an appearance of self-confidence and affluence rarely felt in other regional UK cities.

A proud city

Locals also have an immoderate amount of civic pride, verging on the arrogant. In recent years, this may have been enhanced by its new-found status and affluence, but probably has its origins in the 14th century, when the townsfolk gave shelter to Robert the Bruce during the Wars of Independence. To reciprocate, Bruce granted the town Freedom Lands for which he had until that time collected rent. The money saved was put into a Common Good Fund and spent on public services and facilities. This money is still used today to pay for the maintenance of the citys many lovely parks and to keep the city attractive. The sense of pride in Aberdeens parks and public buildings makes it a particularly enjoyable place to visit. Aberdeen also has a very lively atmosphere, and its numerous bars, restaurants, nightclubs, theatres and shops are as vivacious and thriving as in any city enjoying the fruits of prosperity.