Humans have lived in the area where Aberdeen now sits for at least 6,000 years, according to prehistoric remains found by archaeologists.
But the city as we know it came into being when it received royal burgh status from David I of Scotland in the 12th century - transforming its economy.
It thrived on the traditional industries of fishing, paper-making, shipbuilding, and textiles - thanks in no small part to its position on the mouth of the River Dee and its bustling port.
The University of Aberdeen was founded in 1495, making it the fifth oldest in the English-speaking world.
It was given the name of the Granite City thanks to the locally-quarried grey stone that was used to make many of its building from the mid-18th to the mid-20th centuries, the flecks of mica contained within the granite causing it to sparkle - particularly when wet.
The discovery of North Sea oil in 1969, transformed the city again, leading it to become known at the offshore oil capital of Europe.
Here are 27 pictures taken before the black gold changed it forever.
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2. Warm welcome
The Queen Mother and Princess Margaret arriving at the Gaelic Mod at Aberdeen Music Hall in October 1955. | Johnston Press
3. Blooming
Jimmy Coutts with roses at Jason Cocker's Market Garden at Springhill, Aberdeen, in September 1959. | TSPL
