Found in the town of Kazanlak is the only museum in the world dedicated to rose oil. The museum is housed in the old Rose Institute building. The rose is a symbol of Bulgaria.
The first exhibit was established in 1967, and was part of the History Museum. It presents information on the rose-picking in the Kazanlak region. Following the expansion of the exposure fund in 1969, the exhibit acquired the status of museum. Today it stores around 15,000 objects relating to the collection and production of roses in Bulgaria.
Southern China is considered the birthplace of rose oil. It was then brought to Bulgaria by the Ottomans. According to written sources, industrial quantities of rose oil have been produced in Bulgaria since 1650. The first export of rose oil was made in 1740 on behalf of a French company. Bulgarian rose oil is the preferred rose oil for the creation of French perfumes. Exhibits include original photographs and documents that trace the development and production of roses, harvesting tools, and containers for storage and transport of rose oil and rose water.
The Rose Museum also documents the restoration of a rose oil storage facility, and the first laboratory for analysis of rose oil. One of the museum’s most popular attractions is a container used to store rose oil last used in 1947, but still emanating a strong aroma of roses. The museum shop offers brochures and souvenirs, as well as cosmetics, jam, liquor, and essential oils made from roses.
Museum
Bulgaria
Macedonia
Romania
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Kazanlak