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Step into the fragrant world of Grasse, France – a place where jasmine and rose reign supreme. This small French town is key to the international perfume industry; it’s been called “the perfume capital of the world” and for good reason. From its Great Day station, to its 16th century tower and churches, a visit to Grasse will take you through an olfactory journey like no other. Explore the artistically-crafted creations of Jean Honoré Fragonard in his Ingredient House or experience the individual scent notes from Molinard at their museum, all while taking in centuries’ worth of history. Find out why this city is worth traveling for in our blog post – Uncovering the Olfactory Splendors of Grasse, France!
Key Points
Let’s begin
Grasse, the small French town in the Alpes-Maritimes department of the Provence-Alpes-Cote d’Azur region, is best known for being the world capital of perfumes. It has been at the centre of the perfume industry since the 16th century and today it remains a key destination for tourists looking for a unique experience.
The history of Grasse dates back to the Middle Ages when it became an important trading post, but its association with fragrance began in the 16th century. At that time, jasmine, also known as “the King’s flower” was discovered growing in abundance in Grasse’s hills, inspiring many perfume makers to move their business to this area.
This made Grasse one of France’s most important centres for raw materials during the 18th century and it remains so to this day.
This picturesque town attracts visitors from all over the world who come to explore its cobblestone streets and discover its rich culture and fascinating history. Many visit to experience first-hand some of its top attractions such as the historic Notre-Dame-du-Puy Cathedral, Place aux Aires and Rue Honoré Cresp.
Home to two major museums – Musée Fragonard and Musée d’Art et d’Histoire de Provence – there is plenty here to wow any art enthusiast. There are also plenty of shopping and dining options in Grasse’s historic centre.
Exploring The Perfume Industry In Grasse
From Chanel No5 to Guerlain Shalimar, many of the world’s most popular fragrances have been created by some of Grasse’s oldest and largest perfume companies including Fragonard, Galimard and Molinard. Although these companies are now run by international conglomerates, they still produce their products according to traditional methods passed down through generations.
Each fragrance begins with inspiration drawn from nature then essential oils extracted from plants are blended together with secret recipes finely tuned over centuries. Creating scents involves extracting natural ingredients like flowers, spices or leather from around the world and combining them into something truly unique.
Today, visitors can take a tour behind the scenes at one of these famous factories or learn more about scent creation at one of Grasse’s three main perfumery museums – Galimard Parfumerie Museum, Molinard Fragrance Museum and Fragonard Perfumery Museum. Here you will find out all about how these fragrant concoctions are created, seeing vintage instruments used by perfumers throughout history.
Discovering The Historic Centre Of Grasse
To really soak up what this city has to offer, take a stroll through its charming old town square and cobbled pedestrian streets such as Rue Honoré Cresp. Here you will discover iconic buildings like Notre-Dame-du-Puy Cathedral – built in the 16th century – which is renowned for its Renaissance painting depicting St Michael slaying Satan.
A plethora of art lovers flock here every year thanks to renowned painter Jean-Honoré Fragonard whose work can be seen on display at Musée Fragonard. Formerly a glove maker’s mansion, it houses an extensive collection of his works including paintings from his celebrated series ‘The Progresses of Love’ as well as sculptures, jewellery and frescoes.
For those looking for a shopping experience, the Galimard Parfumerie Museum is home to one of the oldest and most famous perfumery stores in the world. Here you can purchase a variety of fine fragrances or free gifts with your purchase.
No trip to Grasse would be complete without stopping off at some of its top food and flower markets – located just outside the city centre. From fresh local produce to leather gloves and handmade gifts, there’s something for everyone here.
