by David Hovhannisyan
Feb 25, 2024
A Sensory Flight Through Aristocratic Traditions
In the vast realm of fragrances, a new and resonant name emerges with strength: Kiliquia. This name not only carries the intoxicating aroma of its creations but also a cultural richness and a historical legacy that distinguishes it. With deep roots in the ancient Armenian Kingdom of Cilicia and connections that extend to the charming canals of Venice and the lush Canary Islands, Kiliquia transcends the simple role of fragrance provider to become a guardian of heritage and a creator of an artistic symphony where tradition and culture intertwine in perfect harmony.
Kiliquia's journey began at the crossroads between a university in Armenia and the Armenian island of Venice, San Lazzaro, finding its final destination in the marvelous Canary Islands. Inspired by the rich history of the Kingdom of Cilicia, with its Venetian connections, ancient trade routes, and legends that have faded over time, Kiliquia found its purpose.
Born in 2023 in the Canary Islands, Kiliquia has made the lush island of Tenerife its home. It is here that flowers and plants from the Armenian mountains blend with Venetian spices and endemic notes of the Canary Islands, in a meticulous process of formulation, production, and packaging that brings its captivating fragrances to life.
The visionary founders of Kiliquia include Armenian-Canarian tenor David Hovhannisyan and Angela Ciampagna, co-founder and acclaimed "nose" from Italy in 2023, a recognized ambassador of Bergamot. Alongside co-founders Dr. Enrico Maraffino and Yana Nersesyan, they reflect a bold vision of uniting diverse talents and perspectives. Through Kiliquia, Angela has not only created fragrances but also built a cultural bridge between the rich Armenian, Venetian, and Canary Island traditions.
Inspired by the legendary Princess Zabel, Kiliquia's Signature Collection blends ancient Cilician traditions with evocative Venetian influences. Each fragrance in this collection tells a part of Princess Zabel's story, evoking tales of love, courage, and the eternal quest for freedom.
"Rose of Zabel" is an exquisite celebration of the rose, symbolizing the beauty and passion of Princess Zabel. This fragrance combines the freshness and lemony essence of the rose with delicate notes of powder and wood, creating a feminine, clean, and intensely romantic aroma.
On the other hand, "Citrus of Aram," a tribute to the young sailor Aram, blends the vivacity of lemon peel and Calabrian bergamot with Venetian spices. This citrusy and refreshing aroma revives the vibrant energy of the markets where Zabel and Aram fell deeply in love.
Finally, "Tobacco of Hetum" offers a unique olfactory experience with its aroma of woody and sweet tobacco, enriched with amber, representing the depth and richness of the Kingdom of Cilicia. With its layers of various wood notes and a touch of pure tobacco, this fragrance invites a sophisticated and profound journey through the senses.
Kiliquia demonstrates how perfumery can be more than a simple search for pleasant aromas; it can become a means to connect cultures and narrate stories. Each of its fragrances is a whisper of history, a guardian of heritage, and an artistic symphony that touches the soul and resonates through time. With Kiliquia, the art of perfumery reaches new heights, transcending the ordinary to become a truly extraordinary experience.