Aberdeen history in one minute. (Okay… 1:10. Close enough.) From two medieval burghs to international trade, granite, engineering and oil this city has been shaped by learning, industry and sheer determination. Old Aberdeen and New Aberdeen once operated as separate towns. The University of Aberdeen was founded in 1495. Granite from this city helped build landmarks far beyond Scotland. Union Street was carved through hills and valleys by hand. And the discovery of North Sea oil reshaped Aberdeen