The story of Grasse is one of transformation. During the Renaissance, the city was far from the perfume capital we know today. It was renowned for its leather. But leather smelled
strong—too strong. To mask the odor, artisans developed an unexpected skill: scenting gloves. Thus, almost by accident, one of the world’s greatest perfume traditions was born.
In the 17th century, Grasse became the talk of the French court. The aristocracy fell in love with these delicately scented accessories. Gradually, gloves faded away, and perfume took center stage. Grasse shifted its focus. Flower fields replaced tanneries, and the city became
an open-air laboratory—a cradle for centifolia rose, grandiflorum jasmine, tuberose, and iris pallida. Generations of artisans followed, distilling the essence of this land into precious bottles.
Today, this tradition lives on through three historic houses, symbols of Grasse elegance and French craftsmanship:
• Fragonard, founded in 1926, is a celebration of Provençal art de vivre. Located in the heart of the old town, it combines production, museum, and boutique in a warm and refined atmosphere.
• Molinard, active since 1849, blends artisanal rigor with creative spirit. Visitors can discover the secrets of perfume-making in its historic workshops and even compose their own fragrance.
• Galimard, the oldest, founded in 1747, continues a family tradition inspired by suppliers to the royal court. Its fragrances combine heritage and innovation, alchemy and emotion.
These houses are more than perfume manufacturers—they are the guardians of a subtle art: capturing a moment, a memory, the soul of a flower. Visiting them is entering a world where every bottle tells a story, and every drop is a work of art.
