4711 – The Water of Cologne

By Aysha Maryam Cassim

When the Deutsche Bahn from Berlin reached Köln Hauptbahnhof (main train station of Cologne, Germany), a colossal neon sign of 4711, Echt Kölnisch Wasser welcomed me to the home where Eau de Cologne was invented. 

4711 is Cologne’s signature scent that has prevailed in the perfume industry for more than 220 years. The iconic ornamental blue and gold bottle wafts a nostalgic lemony fragrance, which exudes summery, citrus notes. 

This classic cologne has been a favourite in my family for over three generations and I couldn’t think of anything better to do in a city called “Cologne” than follow my nose to the birthplace of the modern perfume. Even today, anyone who visits Cologne does not forget to bring a bottle of 4711 as a souvenir for his or her loved ones. 

“During World War II, Germany’s Nazi Navy (Kriegsmarine) issued large quantities of 4711 perfume to the submariners of the U-boat fleet. There were limited opportunities for bathing, and the scent was used to try and improve the odour aboard the vessel. Obviously the crew members used it sparingly so that they could take it home as presents for their mothers, wives and girlfriends.” (From ‘The Story 4711 Eau De Cologne’ by Wendy Hughes)

4711 was the aroma of the German economic miracle in the 1960s. It was originally developed for medicinal purposes and later achieved international recognition as an eau de Cologne brand in 1972 after living through the tough times of World War II and post-war reconstruction. 

The first bottle of eau de Cologne was invented by an Italian expatriate called Giovanni Maria Farina on 13 July 1709. He wanted to create a formula that reminded him of the Mediterranean. In a letter to his brother dated in 1709, Farina wrote, “I have discovered a scent that reminds me of an Italian spring morning, of daffodils and orange blossoms after the rain.” He named this “Cologne” after the city he lived in.

In the 18th century, a merchant family from Cologne called the Muehlens produced a scent similar to the original eau de Cologne, in the factory on Glockengasse in downtown Cologne. The Mülhens’ perfume dynasty boasted a stunning history of success over the world. Their business flourished over six generations, taking the brand 4711 overseas. In 2006, the company was bought by Maeurer und Wirtz, best known for its perfume brand Tabac Original.

4711 – The House of 

Eau De Cologne. 

Take a walk through the Old Town to 4711 Glockengasse for an authentic, refreshing, excursion and find out the story behind this legendary Cologne. 

Currently, the house is going through a facelift and by 2018, the building will have a splendid new look where visitors and perfume connoisseurs from all around the world can witness the classic art of artisan perfume making and experience the historic elements that showcase the iconic 4711 brand. There’s a flagship store where you can purchase eau de Cologne and their range of other products. 

As you enter the building, there is a fountain at the front door where you can dip your hands in pure eau de Cologne. You could give yourself a brisk splash with a generous wash of 4711 for a cooling sensation. Don’t be embarrassed. No one will judge you. 4711 makes sure that you leave the house of Cologne feeling and smelling good. 

What to do in Cologne?

On the banks of the Rhine stands the Gothic Masterpiece, the towering icon of Cologne, ‘The Kölner Dom’. This architectural gem is famously known as the Cathedral of Cologne. When you step out of the Köln train station, you will be confronted with this colossal edifice that will leave you spellbound with its magnificence. 

Listed as one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Cologne Cathedral is considered to be the third tallest cathedral in the world and boasts the highest church spires ever built. Visitors can climb the over 500 steps to a platform for a breath-taking view of the cityscape over Rhine River.

Germany’s fourth-largest city, Cologne is over 2,000 years old. Once a centre for international trade, over the course of past few centuries, the city has evolved into a major commercial centre that bustles with life and culture. It’s a city which respects its rich past while intermingling with modernity. 

As a tourist, there are plenty of things that you can do in Cologne. Many of the must-see locations are clustered near the Hauptbahnhoff. From Roman artefacts to fascinating museums, breweries and eateries, Cologne is a place where you can satisfy your visual, gustatory and olfactory senses.