Acqua di Colonia Russa - Russian Cologne

Colonia Russa recalls the refined freshness of early 19th-century colognes, when bright citrus and aromatic herbs defined a style of effortless elegance favored across Europe. Inspired by historic Russian cologne traditions, this composition reflects the craftsmanship and heritage of Santa Maria Novella’s apothecary origins.

The fragrance opens with a lively burst of Calabrian bergamot and luminous citrus, softened by the delicate sweetness of neroli. At its heart, aromatic petitgrain, rosemary, and lavender create a crisp herbal clarity, accented by a subtle touch of clove that lends warmth and depth. The base settles into a gentle veil of benzoin with a discreet animalic nuance, adding softness and persistence to this classically structured cologne.

Elegant and invigorating, Colonia Russa captures the spirit of traditional European perfumery-fresh, aromatic, and quietly sophisticated.

OLFACTIVE NOTES

• Top Notes: Calabrian bergamot, citrus, neroli
• Middle Notes: Petitgrain, rosemary, lavender, clove
• Base Notes: Sumatra benzoin, civet

OLFACTIVE FAMILY

Citrus Aromatic

ABOUT SANTA MARIA NOVELLA

Established in 1221 in Florence, the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella originates from the Dominican friars who founded the Santa Maria Novella convent and cultivated a remarkable garden.

This marked the beginning of their expertise in pharmacopoeia and natural preparations. Over time, this knowledge expanded to encompass cosmetics, fragrances, and wellness products, making Santa Maria Novella a renowned name in these realms. 

In 1533, a young Catherine de Medici embarked on her journey to marry the future king of France, accompanied by a retinue that included a perfumer named Renato Bianco. Renato, later known as René le Florentin, brought the ancient wisdom of Florence's essence-makers to Paris, spreading the noble art of perfume throughout the world. Acqua di Santa Maria Novella, also known as Acqua della Regina or the "Queen's Water," is the oldest fragrance from the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, paying homage to the love-filled gift that Caterina bestowed upon France.