Human remains are not unusual in graveyards but finding them above ground certainly is.
A human skull was discovered in the grounds of St Fittick’s Church in Torry.
Police and the council were alerted and an investigation was launched.
After examination by a pathologist it transpired that the skull had been there for a long time but just how long remains unknown.
Police concluded their investigation satisfied that no new crime had occurred.
A police spokeswoman said: “Inquiries were carried out and it was established that there were no suspicious circumstances.”
She added: “Bones rise to the surface after they are buried. But it takes a long long time.”
Local history experts claim the churchyard is an ancient burial ground that goes back to the 13th Century.
The possibly ancient skull is currently in the possession of Aberdeen City Council.
An Aberdeen City Council spokeswoman said: “We received a report that a skull was found in the graveyard at St Fittick’s Church by a member of the public last week.
“As per normal protocol, the matter was reported to police.”
