An Olfactive Journey to Ephesus

Ephesus was a very large metropolis and served as a crucial port for the import of goods produced in the city and the export of goods to the city. For this reason, a wide variety of amphorae were used in ancient Ephesus. So what was transported in these amphorae? Of course, oils; olive oil and scented oils. The people of Ephesus, like other ancient peoples, lived a life filled with scents. They hung pots of lilly of the valley and geraniums on their doors to welcome pleasant fragrances into their homes. They burned clary sage in their homes to ward off evil spirits and protect themselves.

Geranium

They adorned the statues found in the squares and temples of the ancient city, nestled between lemon and bergamot trees, with garlands woven from the leaves of sweetgum leafs endemic to the region and fragrant flowers such as roses and jasmine. And, of course, throughout ancient history, they rubbed the statues with fragrant oils, as did the Sumerians, Hittites, and Phrygians.

Lemon

The priests at Ephesus would burn incense made from chips of cedar and sandalwood, along with cinnamon, myrrh, and the resin of the sweetgum tree, which is native to Ephesus, to create a spiritual aura in the temples for the gods they worshipped. During the Roman period, they would purchase scented oils, ointments and scented creams from perfume shops called ‘Unguentarii’ and apply them to their bodies.

Sweetgum

Now, dear reader, you are invited to Ephesus… Once you take a sniff, you will embark on a wonderful journey back to those bygone days.

Ephesus is an invitation to let yourself go and enjoy those moments when time suspends its flight.  A hint of sweetgum leaf and geranium prolong the powdery accents of the woodies, while caressing them with a touch of sensuality. Like an old poem written in distant times..

Head Notes: Lemon, Bergamot, Clary Sage
Hearth Notes: Sweetgum Leaf, Geranium
Base Notes: Cedarwood, Cashmere Wood, Sandalwood

Written by Halil ÖZER