Turkey’s national symbol of health and hospitality, KOLONYA™ is a century old ritual dating back to the late 1800’s. The use of rose water reigned supreme until the arrival of eau de cologne from Germany. When Ottoman Sultan Abdulhamit II first encountered eau de cologne, he was inspired to fuse the tradition of rose water with the enticing and exotic aromatic ingredients of eau de cologne.

The evolution of KOLONYA™ from rose water is rooted in the creation of Italian born perfumer, Johann Maria Farina’s “water of Cologne” fragrance from the early 1700’s. He dedicated the name “eau de Cologne” to his newly adopted hometown of Cologne Germany.

As opposed to a Parfum, Eau de Cologne typically refers to a light unisex citrus scent but it is a now a widely used term to describe most men’s fragrance. Citrus ingredients such as lemon, orange, tangerine, clementine, bergamot, lime, grapefruit, blood and bitter orange are typically used. Florals and herbaceous notes like neroli, lavender, rosemary, jasmine, oregano, thyme, petitgrain and olive can also be blended to create zesty and refreshing fragrance varieties.

What used to be rose water now birthed KOLONYA™ - a new fragrance and ritual which was to be passed on from generation to generation for years to come.

While the formula has typically stayed the same, perfumers and chemists are continually creating new fragrance renditions and experimenting with new ingredients.

Traditionally used to disinfect, sanitize and refresh, it is the ultimate sign of hospitality, nostalgia and comfort.