Point of interest
Eau de Cologne 4711 (Glockengasse)
in Cologne, Germany
Birthplace of the perfume that gave the city its French name. The flagship house at Glockengasse 4711 is today a shop and small experience centre devoted to the story of 'eau de Cologne'.
Where it is
The 4711 Fragrance House is at Glockengasse 4 in the city centre, just a few minutes' walk from the cathedral.
Address: Sachsenbergstraße, 50679 Cologne
What it is
The house is shop, museum and event venue in one: inside, the famous fragrance fountain bubbles with genuine eau de cologne. A tapestry scene tells the story of the brand, and guided tours and fragrance seminars are offered. A charming, free stop while exploring the city.
History
The world-famous Echt Kölnisch Wasser (genuine eau de cologne) has been made since 1792, and the number 4711 derives from the Napoleonic house-numbering of the Glockengasse. The flagship house has been the brand's showpiece for generations. It was extensively redesigned in 2017.