Aberdeen

Aberdeen
Settlement type	City
Coordinates	57.15, -2.1
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	United Kingdom
Subdivision type1	Country
Subdivision name1	Scotland
Subdivision type2	Council area
Subdivision name2	Aberdeen City
Leader title	Lord Provost
Leader name	Barney Crockett
Population total	228670
Population as of	2011

Aberdeen is a city located in the North East of Scotland, situated between the Don River and the Dee River. The city is known for its stunning architecture, with many buildings made from granite from the nearby Rubislaw Quarry, and its rich history, dating back to the Middle Ages. Aberdeen is often referred to as the Oil Capital of Europe due to its significant role in the North Sea oil industry, with major companies such as BP, Royal Dutch Shell, and ExxonMobil operating in the city. The city is also home to the University of Aberdeen, which is one of the oldest universities in the UK, and has a strong connection to famous figures such as Alexander MacKenzie and James Gregory.

Geography

Aberdeen is situated on the north-east coast of Scotland, approximately 120 miles north of Edinburgh and 400 miles north of London. The city is nestled between the Don River and the Dee River, which provide a stunning backdrop to the city's landscape. The nearby Cairngorms National Park offers a unique opportunity for outdoor activities, such as Hiking, Skiing, and Cycling, and is home to a variety of wildlife, including the Red Deer, Golden Eagle, and Otter. The city's coastal location also provides access to the North Sea, with popular beaches such as Balmedie Beach and Aberdeen Beach attracting visitors from across the United Kingdom. Famous residents of the city include Annie Lennox, Emeli Sandé, and Nick Nairn, who have all been inspired by the city's natural beauty.

History

Aberdeen has a rich and varied history, dating back to the Middle Ages. The city was an important center for the Hanseatic League, a powerful trading federation that dominated trade in Northern Europe during the Medieval period. The city's strategic location made it an attractive target for invaders, including the Vikings, who raided the city in the 10th century. The city was also a key location during the Scottish Reformation, with figures such as John Knox and George Wishart playing important roles in the city's history. The city's connection to the British Empire is also evident, with many Aberdonians, such as James Outram and Hugh Rose, serving in the British Army during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 and the Crimean War. Other notable historical figures associated with the city include Robert the Bruce, Mary, Queen of Scots, and Charles II of England.

Economy

Aberdeen's economy is driven by the North Sea oil industry, with many major companies, including BP, Royal Dutch Shell, and ExxonMobil, operating in the city. The city is also a major center for the Fishing industry, with the Aberdeen Harbour being one of the busiest fishing ports in the United Kingdom. The city's economy is also supported by a strong Tourism industry, with visitors attracted to the city's stunning architecture, rich history, and natural beauty. The city is home to a number of major employers, including Wood Group, Petrofac, and Nexen, and has a strong connection to the University of Aberdeen, which is a major driver of innovation and entrepreneurship in the city. Other notable companies with a presence in the city include Total S.A., Chevron Corporation, and ConocoPhillips.

Culture

Aberdeen has a vibrant cultural scene, with a wide range of festivals and events taking place throughout the year. The city is home to the Aberdeen International Youth Festival, which attracts performers from across the World. The city is also host to the Aberdeen Jazz Festival, which features performances by world-renowned jazz musicians, such as Herbie Hancock and Diana Krall. The city's cultural scene is also supported by a number of museums and galleries, including the Aberdeen Maritime Museum and the Tolbooth, which showcase the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Famous cultural figures associated with the city include Iain Crichton Smith, George MacDonald, and Lewis Grassic Gibbon, who have all been inspired by the city's unique culture.

Education

Aberdeen is home to two universities, the University of Aberdeen and Robert Gordon University. The University of Aberdeen is one of the oldest universities in the UK, and has a strong reputation for academic excellence, with notable alumni including Alexander MacKenzie, James Gregory, and John Stuart Mill. The city is also home to a number of colleges, including North East Scotland College and Aberdeen College, which provide a range of vocational and academic courses. The city's education system is also supported by a number of schools, including Aberdeen Grammar School and Harlaw Academy, which have a strong reputation for academic achievement. Other notable educational institutions in the city include the Aberdeen University Library and the Robert Gordon University Library.

Transportation

Aberdeen has a well-developed transportation network, with a range of options available for getting around the city. The city is served by Aberdeen Airport, which offers flights to destinations across the United Kingdom and Europe, including London Heathrow Airport, Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. The city is also connected to the UK rail network by Aberdeen railway station, which offers regular services to London King's Cross and other major cities in the United Kingdom. The city's bus network is operated by First Aberdeen and Stagecoach East Scotland, which provide a range of services across the city and to surrounding towns and villages. The city is also a major hub for the North Sea ferry network, with services operated by NorthLink Ferries to the Orkney Islands and the Shetland Islands. Other notable transportation links in the city include the A90 road and the A96 road.

Category:Cities in Scotland