The Ancient Scent: 4711 Cologne's Age And History

4711 is a traditional German Eau de Cologne that has been in production since at least 1792. The brand has been expanded to various other perfumes and products besides the original Echt Kölnisch Wasser, which has used the same formula for more than 200 years. The original 4711 store at Glockengasse 4 in Cologne is a popular tourist attraction.

The origins of 4711 cologne

The name 4711 came about due to the French military occupation of the city in 1794. Frustrated by the disorganized layout, a French general ordered that all houses be sequentially numbered. Muelhens' house was given the number 4711, which has stuck with the brand ever since.

In 1810, Napoleon decreed that all recipes for medications intended for internal use must publicly list their ingredients. Muelhens didn't want to disclose his secret recipe, so he began marketing his miracle water solely as a fragrance.

The 4711 brand has since expanded to various other perfumes and products, but the original Echt Kölnisch Wasser has used the same formula for more than 200 years. The original 4711 store at Glockengasse 4 in Cologne has become a popular tourist attraction.

The history of the 4711 brand

In 1794, the French military occupation of the city began, and a French general, frustrated by the disorganized layout of Cologne, ordered that all houses be sequentially numbered. Muelhen's house was given the number 4711, which has stuck with the brand ever since.

In 1810, Napoleon decreed that all medications intended for internal use must publicly list their ingredients. Not wanting to disclose his secret recipe, Muelhens began marketing his miracle water solely as a fragrance.

In 1820, Peter Heinrich Molanus designed the hexagonal, upright bottle still used by the brand today. In 1875, Ferdinand Muelhens (Wilhelm's grandson) registered 4711 as a brand and created the first iteration of the modern logo.

In the early 20th century, the brand experienced significant growth. In 1921, they introduced Tosca, a perfume for women based on aldehydes. Later in the 1920s, the company hired famous illustrator Lutz Ehrenberger for an advertising campaign. However, the ads were considered too scandalous, and 4711 ended the campaign when the Archbishop of Cologne got involved.

During World War II, 4711's headquarters were destroyed in the American carpet bombing of Cologne. In the 1950s, the brand erected the "Blue and Gold Building" across from Cologne Cathedral, as well as a new manufacturing plant. The company continued to expand globally, with new bottling plants in Japan, Guatemala, and Egypt.

In the 21st century, 4711 has shifted towards a more artistic and theoretical approach to its products, releasing new scents like the Acqua Colonia collection in 2009.

The cologne's ingredients

The ingredients of 4711 Original Eau de Cologne are as follows:

• Top notes: lemon, bergamot, orange oil, peach, basil, and orange
• Middle notes: lavender, rosemary, cyclamen, lily, melon, jasmine, and Bulgarian rose
• Base notes: neroli, petitgrain, patchouli, Tahitian vetiver, musk, sandalwood, oakmoss, and cedar

The cologne's scent

The scent of 4711 is a citrus aromatic fragrance for both men and women. It has top notes of lemon, bergamot, and orange; middle notes of lavender and rosemary; and base notes of neroli and petitgrain. It is a classic German scent that has adorned the wrists of men and women since the 18th century.

The original 4711 store at Glockengasse 4 in Cologne is a popular tourist attraction.

The cologne's popularity

The Colognes' Popularity:

The popularity of 4711 cologne is deeply intertwined with its rich history and cultural significance in Cologne, Germany. Its enduring fame can be attributed to several key factors that have contributed to its lasting legacy. Introduced in 1709 by Italian immigrant Johann Maria Farina, the fragrance was initially named "Eau de Cologne," reflecting its origins in the city of Cologne. Farina's creation quickly gained traction due to its unique and captivating scent, which set it apart from other fragrances of its time. The cologne offered a refreshing and invigorating experience, making it an instant favorite among those who valued personal hygiene and sought a sophisticated aroma.

One of the pivotal factors in the cologne's popularity was its innovative use of marketing and branding strategies. Farina recognized the power of branding and began selling his fragrance in a simple bottle adorned with a minimalist label bearing the now-iconic red and white colors. The bottle's design has remained largely unchanged for centuries, becoming an enduring symbol of the cologne's rich heritage. Additionally, Farina was a master of marketing, employing clever tactics to promote his product. He sent samples to influential figures, advertised in newspapers, and even offered tours of his workshop, creating an air of exclusivity and intrigue around the cologne.

The unique blend of citrus oils and aromatic compounds in 4711 cologne also contributed to its widespread appeal. At the time of its creation, most perfumes and colognes were heavy and overpowering, often containing animal-based ingredients. In contrast, 4711 cologne offered a light and refreshing scent, with top notes of lemon and orange providing an uplifting and invigorating experience. The use of citrus oils, a key component of the cologne, was believed to have medicinal properties, further adding to its allure and perceived health benefits. This refreshing aroma, unlike anything available at the time, captivated both men and women, solidifying its place as a staple in the world of perfumery.

Over the centuries, 4711 cologne has become an integral part of German culture and a symbol of the country's rich heritage. It has been used to celebrate important occasions, with new mothers traditionally receiving a bottle to mark the birth of a child. It is also a staple during Carnival, a festive season celebrated in Cologne and the surrounding region. The cologne has become an iconic symbol of the city itself, with its name and reputation spreading far and wide, attracting tourists eager to experience the authentic essence of Cologne. The longevity and enduring popularity of 4711 cologne are a testament to its ability to adapt to changing tastes and trends while retaining its core appeal.

Today, 4711 cologne continues to captivate and entice new generations of fragrance enthusiasts. Its popularity endures due to its timeless appeal, high-quality ingredients, and the air of sophistication it imparts. The cologne's rich history and cultural significance add to its allure, making it a true classic in the world of perfumery. With its distinctive scent and iconic status, 4711 cologne is poised to remain a favorite for centuries to come, a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted and captivating fragrance.

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