Grasse is a small town in the south of France, nestled among the hills of Provence, which over the centuries has earned the title of ‘world capital of perfume’. But why Grasse? The reasons are historical, climatic and cultural.

As early as the 17th century, Grasse was known for the production of scented gloves, a custom that combined craftsmanship and perfume to mask the smell of leather. It was this activity that gave impetus to the local cultivation of flowers such as jasmine, centifolia rose and tuberose, which soon became key elements in the production of fragrances.

The mild, sunny climate, together with fertile soil, makes the area ideal for growing flowers and aromatic plants. Even today, the fields of jasmine in bloom during the summer months are a symbol of Grasse’s olfactory tradition.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, Grasse established itself as a global benchmark for the production of essences. Many of the most important French perfume houses have forged historic partnerships with local growers and laboratories.

Today, Grasse is also home to prestigious schools for perfumers – the famous ‘noses’ – and hosts annual events and festivals dedicated to the world of perfumery. Here, tradition meets innovation: from artisanal extraction methods such as enfleurage to the most modern technologies.

Visiting Grasse means immersing yourself in a unique olfactory heritage, where the culture of perfume is an integral part of the identity of the territory. It is an essential stop for those who love artistic perfumery and want to discover the deep roots of this fascinating art.