Monday, September 12, 2011

Cologne, Germany: Smells Like History

Inside the huge cathedral of Cologne, built in Gothic times...the height of the ceiling was considered a representation of proximity to heaven and to God himself. 

What I noticed right away is that some Roman artifact ruins, including a pediment, a sarcophagus and various Roman capitals, were almost free for the stealing, outside next to the Museum. Are they so plentiful in Germany that nobody cares if they are stolen? Here in America, there are none, so they are considered true treasures.

Today, Cologne is a busy city with a sophisticated buzz. Yet Cologne is where the first eau de toilette was created. The original fragrance is still for sale as well as a updated version. Both smell lovely. It was an olfactory revelation to sniff what my ancestors sniffed two hundred years ago.  The old standard of flowers, mixed with herbs and incense, familiar and yet not...

Your imaginary perfume wearer,
Patsie

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