Colony

Cologne is a product known today for both its fragrance and its hygienic properties. As a diluted version of perfume, cologne has assumed various functions over the centuries in Europe and Türkiye. In particular, in Türkiye, cologne has not merely served as a cleaning and deodorizing agent but has also become a symbol of hospitality and cultural tradition.

Origins and History of Cologne

The origin of cologne dates back to 1709, when Giovanni Maria Farina, an Italian immigrant to Germany, developed a product he named “Eau de Cologne” or “Köln Suyu.” Farina blended this unique mixture with citrus blossom, bergamot, lemon, and orange blossom essences, quickly making it popular across Europe due to its refreshing scent and antiseptic properties.

Initially used for medical purposes, cologne later became preferred for aiding digestion, relieving head pain, and protecting against germs. Recognized as a medicinal product by the Faculty of Medicine in Cologne in 1727, cologne gradually found its place in daily life.

History in the Ottoman Empire and Türkiye

Cologne arrived in Ottoman in the late 19th century. The first cologne production in Türkiye was carried out in 1882 by Ahmet Faruki, who introduced it to the market as “Faruki Kolonyası.” During the Ottoman period, as pharmacists began producing medicines and cosmetics, cologne was rapidly adopted across society.

After the declaration of the Republic, cologne production increased significantly. In Türkiye, cologne evolved beyond being merely a cosmetic product to become a cultural institution. Pioneers such as Ethem Pertev, Süleyman Ferit Eczacıbaşı, and Eyüp Sabri Tuncer played key roles in its development.

In the 1930s, the establishment of sugar factories that began alcohol production boosted cologne manufacturing and strengthened the cologne industry.

A representative image of a holiday in Türkiye and the importance of cologne. Generated by artificial intelligence.

Hospitality and Cologne in Türkiye

Offering cologne to guests has become an indispensable element of hospitality in Türkiye. Presenting cologne to visitors traditionally conveys messages of cleanliness, freshness, and welcome. Offering cologne during holidays, funerals, and special occasions is a meaningful practice in Turkish culture.

• Cologne during Holidays: Offering cologne during holiday visits continues as both a traditional and hygienic custom.
• Cologne at Funeral Visits: At condolence visits, cologne is offered to create a sense of openness in the mourning atmosphere and to provide guests with hygiene.
• Guest Reception: In Türkiye, offering cologne to guests is seen as part of both hygiene practices and the culture of pleasant fragrance.

Production and Packaging Development

Over time, cologne production in Türkiye diversified with the emergence of various brands. Brands expanded product variety by introducing different aromas such as classical lemon cologne, jasmine, row lavender, and rose.

Cologne packaging has evolved over time, transitioning from glass bottles to plastic bottles, from decorative gift bottles to large bulk containers. In the 20th century, cologne was also presented in special packaging as a gift.

Contemporary Role of Cologne and the Impact of COVID-19

During the COVID-19 pandemic pandemic, cologne reemerged as a hygienic product. High-alcohol-content colognes played a significant role in preventing the spread of viruses and germs due to their disinfectant properties. Cologne was included among the solutions recommended by the World World Health Organization, which advised alcohol concentrations of 70–80 percent ethyl alcohol.

As demand for cologne surged during the pandemic, production in Türkiye increased proportionally. During this period, cologne continued to be used across all segments of society as both a hygienic and cultural element.

Various types of cologne. Representative image generated by artificial intelligence.

Types and Uses

Cologne is classified into different types based on its alcohol content and the essential oils used. The most well-known varieties include lemon, lavender, and flower-herb colognes. Each type differs in its sensory effect and intended use.

Lemon cologne is the most popular and widely preferred type in Türkiye. Its refreshing and invigorating properties make it especially favored during summer months to provide coolness. Due to its high alcohol content, it possesses antiseptic feature properties and is frequently used for cleaning. Lemon cologne is offered to guests during holidays, condolence visits, and special occasions as part of Turkish culture. Traditionally, offering cologne to guests extends the ritual of cleanliness and pleasant fragrance.

Lavender cologne is known for its calming and soothing effects. Lavender essence, with its nerve-soothing and stress relieving properties, is used before sleep or for relaxation. Lavender cologne is also preferred for personal care and to create a sense of freshness in house environments. In earlier times, lavender cologne was commonly used in homes and bed rooms to create a pleasant atmosphere.

Floral and herbal colognes have been favored by those seeking diverse fragrances. Enriched with aromas such as jasmine, rose, orange blossom, and amber, these colognes are known for their romantic and calming effects. Due to their longer-lasting scents and broad aromatic range, they are also chosen as gifts for personal care and special occasions.

Colognes are not only used for personal hygiene but also to impart a pleasant smell to spaces and maintain hygiene.