Campsite near Grasse 
Just 20 minutes from Les Pinèdes campsite in Provence, Grasse has made a name for itself as the world capital of perfumery. Roses and jasmine find in this setting all the poetry that the town devotes to flowers and perfumes. Its incomparable historical heritage makes it one of the few preserved examples of medieval architecture, while the painter Fragonard, a native of the area, gave it an international reputation.
Grasse, world capital of perfumery
Parfumerie Fragonard
Perfumers in Grasse since 1926, Maison Fragonard manufactures its products in its 3 factories on the Côte d’Azur.
From the perfume plant to the perfume itself, in Grasse you can discover all the stages involved in making a perfume, but first a little history!
In the Middle Ages, Grasse was known, not for its perfumes, but for its quality leather, but this smelly industry prompted a tanner to soak his gloves in natural essences found in the region. This idea won over his customers, including Catherine de Médicis, and his products were sold all over Europe. Gradually, tanning gave way to perfumery, before being completely abandoned in the 18th century.
Three great families of perfumers still mark the history of Grasse today: the Gallimard family, the Molinard family and the Fuchs family, who named their perfumery Fragonard in homage to the famous painter Jean-Honoré Fragonard, a native of Grasse.
Take the time to see how perfume plants are produced at Domaine de Manon, for example. Here you’ll discover the cultivation of Centifolia rose and Grandiflorum jasmine, two flowers that contribute to the reputation of this profession.
Discover the three historic perfumeries and, if you like, have fun creating your own perfume with the help of an expert at an ” Apprentice Perfumer ” workshop.
Grasse, city of art and history
Like Nice and Menton, Grasse has been a “Ville d’art et d’histoire” since 2005.
From Antiquity to the 21st century, from built heritage to natural heritage, in its aesthetic as well as social dimensions, Grasse offers a privileged terrain for discovery and exchange. Throughout the year, guide-lecturers will help you discover the riches of Grasse on a variety of themes: Renaissance, Middle Ages, Tannery, Perfumery, Architecture… For more information, contact the Grasse Tourist Office or the Maison du Patrimoine.
Discover Grasse’s museums, including the Musée International de la Parfumerie, the Villa musée Fragonard, the Musée Fragonard, the Musée d’Art et d’Histoire de Provence and the Musée Provençal du Costume et du Bijou, housed in the former home of Mirabeau’s sister, the Marquise de Cabris.
