It is the oldest perfume factory in the world still in operation, and the birthplace of the first “Eau de Cologne.” It was established in 1709 and has been located at its current site since 1723.
Johann Maria Farina (1685–1766) named his perfume in honor of his hometown, Cologne, thereby making the city world-famous.
The city of Cologne pays tribute to its illustrious citizen with a figure on the Town Hall tower.
The original Eau de Cologne became the favorite of distinguished figures — kings, queens, stars, and prominent politicians — around the globe.
The Perfume War
The controversy involving the 4711 factory began when its founder, Wilhelm Mülhens, purchased the rights to the Farina family business in 1804. He then began using the Farina name on his own perfumes — which were distinct from those sold by the House of Farina — because it was a brand renowned worldwide for its quality.
The problem was that the seller of the brand was a "fake" Farina — an Italian national who seized the opportunity presented by sharing the same surname as the Cologne-based family, despite having absolutely no connection to the German company. He was, quite simply, a fraudster!
After years of legal battles, Wilhelm Mülhens was compelled to drop the Farina name. In 1840, he renamed his factory "4711" — and ultimately achieved worldwide fame with his own perfume.
Farina Museum
The museum chronicles the more than 300-year history of Farina perfume.
Visitors can explore the entire Farina family archive, tracing the story from the very inception of their perfume production to the founding of the company itself.
In the perfume manufacturing room, visitors can discover various types of essences and learn how perfume is created.
A truly wonderful visit.
Opening
It is generally open Monday through Friday between 9:30 AM and 6:30 PM, and on Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Tickets
Adults: €10.00
Children and Students: €8.00
Tour in Historical Costume: €15.00
Tour in Historical Costume (Children and Students): €10.00
The Fragrance Museum can only be visited as part of a guided tour. Reservations for tours in English are recommended via this website.
Address
Obenmarspforten 21
