Profumo Di Montecatini by Princess Marcella Borghese c1987

Profumo Di Montecatini Natural Spa by Princess Marcella Borghese, launched in 1987, was inspired by the Princess's luxurious "Terme di Montecatini" treatment line, named after the world-renowned, 2,400-year-old Italian spa in Tuscany. This fragrance, capturing the essence of the rejuvenating spa experience, speaks to both the elegance and the deeply relaxing qualities associated with the spa's therapeutic water and natural treatments. The name, Profumo Di Montecatini Natural Spa, directly translates from Italian as "Perfume of Montecatini Natural Spa." It can be pronounced as "Pro-foo-mo Dee Mon-te-ca-tee-nee" The name evokes images of Italy’s rolling hills, lush greenery, and the tranquil, mineral-rich waters of Montecatini’s famous hot springs. It conjures up emotions of relaxation, purity, and rejuvenation—like stepping into a serene spa where time slows down, and the natural world invigorates the body and soul.

Princess Marcella Borghese, a prominent figure in the luxury beauty industry, was well known for her commitment to both high-end skincare and fragrance. By choosing to name this product after Montecatini, she captured the essence of both luxury and well-being, suggesting that the fragrance not only embodied beauty but also carried with it the holistic, therapeutic qualities that the spa is renowned for. This connection between fragrance and the beneficial effects of aromatherapy is central to the perfume’s concept. The 1980s, when Profumo Di Montecatini Natural Spa was launched, were characterized by a growing interest in wellness and self-care, paired with a more natural aesthetic in beauty products. Fashion and trends were moving toward minimalist, clean looks and fragrances that were lighter, more transparent, and often linked to natural ingredients and environmental consciousness. This scent appealed to women of the time who sought both luxury and relaxation in their beauty routines—those who valued not just outward beauty but also the calming and invigorating effects of nature.

Profumo Di Montecatini Natural Spa was truly a reflection of the 1980s fascination with aromatherapy and the connection between scent and emotional well-being. The fragrance itself is described as transparent and floral, with notes inspired by the spa’s waters and the abundant florals found in the Tuscan region. The heart of the fragrance is dominated by geranium, a note that was integral to Borghese's skincare line, lending both floral sweetness and an underlying herbaceousness. Freesia, with its delicate and fresh character, enhances this, adding a touch of lightness to the scent. The addition of elemi, a resin from the Philippine tree, brings a subtle woodiness and aromatherapeutic qualities that make the fragrance soothing and grounding. The base notes of cedarwood, sandalwood, and vanilla introduce a comforting warmth and depth to the composition, making the fragrance both calming and uplifting, much like the spa experience it was designed to evoke.

Compared to other fragrances on the market at the time, Profumo Di Montecatini Natural Spa stood out by its direct association with wellness and the natural, therapeutic effects of a traditional spa. While many fragrances of the 1980s were focused on opulence and glamour, often with bold florals and gourmand notes, Borghese’s creation embraced a softer, more holistic approach. This fragrance would have appealed to women seeking both luxury and a sense of well-being, and it likely resonated with the growing wellness movement that was influencing skincare and fragrance trends in the late 20th century. It was a scent that invited its wearer to indulge in a moment of peace, relaxation, and sensory pleasure—a true reflection of the spa experience it was inspired by.

The press materials for Profumo di Montecatini Natural Spa Perfume positioned the fragrance as a sensory experience deeply connected to the essence of the renowned Italian Terme di Montecatini Spa, famed for its curative thermal baths and rejuvenating treatments. Described as soothing and sensual, this perfume was presented as more than just a fragrance—it was a means to embody the revitalizing power of the Montecatini Spa itself. The press release emphasizes the gilded, glistening notes that unfold to reveal a rich bouquet of exotic botanicals, evoking the opulent yet serene atmosphere of the Tuscan spa. This luxurious scent was crafted to awaken and recharge the wearer, providing a sense of renewal not just physically, but emotionally and spiritually as well.

At the heart of the fragrance is geranium, a note deeply rooted in the Princess Marcella Borghese's skincare line, and one that was selected for its ability to evoke the rejuvenating nature of the spa’s products. Geranium's subtle floral undertones are balanced by the fresh, light brightness of freesia, which adds a delicate airiness to the composition. The inclusion of elemi, a resin known for its soothing properties, introduces a grounding, woody essence that complements the softer florals, providing aromatherapeutic qualities to the fragrance. This note, while calming and relaxing, also imbues the perfume with an exotic and slightly spicy complexity.

The fragrance’s base notes of cedarwood, sandalwood, and vanilla deepen the scent, lending it a warming, comforting richness that feels both grounding and enveloping. The smooth woodiness of cedarwood combines harmoniously with the creamy sweetness of sandalwood, while the soft, velvety warmth of vanilla adds a gentle sensuality to the composition. Together, these base notes create a soothing, restorative foundation for the fragrance, enhancing its aromatherapeutic benefits.

This fragrance, described as transparent and floral, mirrors the purity and clarity of the thermal waters of the Montecatini Spa. It was marketed not only as a perfume but as a revitalizing treatment for the body and spirit, ideal for spraying lavishly after a shower or bath to capture the essence of Italy's renowned spa. The emphasis on nature-inspired ingredients, combined with the perfume's soft sensuality and uplifting qualities, positioned Profumo di Montecatini Natural Spa Perfume as a product that helped its wearer feel renewed, complete, and invigorated. This was not just a scent—it was a sensorial journey, inviting the user to indulge in the soothing rituals of a luxurious spa experience anytime they desired, wherever they were.

The tone of the marketing language suggests a holistic approach to beauty, wellness, and self-care, which resonates deeply with the late 1980s growing interest in natural, calming, and rejuvenating fragrances. The combination of florals and calming wood notes, along with the essential aromatherapeutic qualities, positioned Profumo di Montecatini Natural Spa Perfume as a uniquely modern and spiritually uplifting fragrance that transcended the conventional approach to perfume, offering an emotionally and physically revitalizing experience.

Profumo di Montecatini debuted in early October 1987, aligning itself with Borghese’s Montecatini treatment brand, a line inspired by the renowned thermal spa waters of Montecatini Terme, Italy. Unlike traditional fragrance launches, Profumo di Montecatini was not positioned as a standalone perfume but rather as a complementary element within Borghese’s skincare and wellness offerings. Sold across 900 department and specialty store counters, the fragrance was designed to enhance the spa-like, luxurious experience associated with the brand. However, as Borghese refined its retail strategy, distribution was deliberately tightened, with the number of locations expected to shrink to 750 by the following year.

Despite its exclusivity, the company had modest volume expectations for Profumo di Montecatini. A Borghese spokesperson acknowledged that the fragrance was not a traditional mass-market launch, noting that it was integrated into the treatment line rather than promoted as a high-volume perfume. In keeping with this strategy, the scent was released in a single format—a 4.2 oz spray perfume, retailing at $34—rather than a broad range of concentrations and ancillary products. Still, its first-year retail projections were strong, with expected sales of approximately $4 million.

By intertwining skincare and fragrance, Profumo di Montecatini embodied a holistic approach to beauty, emphasizing sensory indulgence, well-being, and Italian spa traditions. Its exclusivity and strategic placement within the Montecatini treatment range set it apart from more conventional fragrance launches, reinforcing Borghese’s legacy of luxurious self-care steeped in European heritage.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? Profumo Di Montecatini by Princess Marcella Borghese  is classified as an aromatic marine fragrance for men and women. 

• Top notes: lavender, red juniper berry, rosemary, freesia, clary sage, lily of the valley
• Middle notes: magnolia, bearberry leaves, psyllium seed, life everlasting flowers, geranium
• Base notes: oakmoss, sandalwood, vanilla, elemi wood resin, cedar, vetiver

Scent Profile:

Profumo Di Montecatini by Princess Marcella Borghese opens with a burst of aromatic freshness, where lavender rises first, its familiar, calming fragrance sweeping over you like a cool breeze through sunlit fields. It's delicate but assertive, offering a soft yet grounding floral aroma that immediately evokes a sense of serenity. The fragrance is quickly enlivened by the red juniper berry, which adds a crisp, almost tangy note—sharp and invigorating, like the scent of freshly crushed berries. This is balanced by the herbal richness of rosemary, its aromatic, slightly resinous quality bringing a sense of clarity and crispness to the air. Alongside, the freshness of freesia offers a light floral touch, dewy and elegant, like the first blooms of spring. The combination of these notes creates an initial impression of nature's untamed beauty, herbal and floral, with a breezy and energizing atmosphere. Clary sage enters, adding a subtle yet distinctive herbal warmth, smooth and aromatic, almost reminiscent of fresh sage leaves in the kitchen—earthy but clean. Lily of the valley, with its delicate sweetness, gently emerges in the top notes, offering a soft floral accent that lingers as a fresh, bright note in the composition.

As the fragrance settles, the middle notes introduce a more refined, slightly complex facet to the scent. Magnolia enters with its creamy, slightly citrusy floral note—warm, delicate, and lush, like the first bloom of the magnolia tree, soft and rich, yet entirely uplifting. Bearberry leaves provide a hint of earthiness, almost leathery, with a touch of berry-like sweetness—a natural, grounding note that connects the fragrance to the earth, adding depth and complexity. The inclusion of psyllium seed brings an unexpected herbal nuance, dry and powdery, adding a layer of natural texture that deepens the overall scent profile. Life everlasting flowers lend a subtle, hay-like sweetness to the middle, their dried, almost resinous scent evoking the sense of a late-summer field, offering a sophisticated depth of character to the fragrance. As the middle notes evolve, geranium presents itself with a light, slightly rosy and green floral quality, adding an herbal sweetness that blends seamlessly with the other notes, making the heart of the fragrance feel both refreshing and floral.

The base notes offer a grounding contrast to the lightness of the opening and heart. Oakmoss provides a deep, forest-like richness—a musky, earthy aroma that evokes a feeling of standing among ancient trees, surrounded by the damp scent of moss and forest floor. This is smoothed out by the creamy warmth of sandalwood, which is soft yet slightly spicy, adding a gentle woodiness to the composition that feels rich and grounding, like the embrace of nature itself. The sweet and smooth aspect of vanilla balances the woodsy richness, its comforting and almost edible warmth adding an inviting, sensual layer that feels both calming and luxurious. Elemi wood resin, with its subtle citrusy and spicy profile, introduces an aromatic and resinous undertone that adds a touch of mystery and complexity to the base, while also enhancing the freshness of the other elements. Cedar brings in its dry, slightly smoky woodiness, complementing the oakmoss and sandalwood, further deepening the fragrance with its strong, earthy presence. Lastly, vetiver anchors the fragrance with its smoky, woody, and slightly grassy aroma, giving a final grounding touch that feels clean and meditative, like fresh-cut grass or earth after rain.

Together, the ingredients in Profumo Di Montecatini create a fragrance that feels simultaneously refreshing and calming, blending the invigorating elements of nature with the grounding earthiness of woods and moss. It evokes the image of a serene, coastal landscape, where the cool breeze carries the scent of wild herbs and fresh flowers, while the surrounding woods offer a deep, earthy foundation. This harmonious balance of freshness and earthiness, floral sweetness and herbal depth, makes it an aromatic marine fragrance that is perfect for both men and women seeking a scent that is both energizing and soothing, timeless yet modern.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Launched in 1987, Profumo Di Montecatini captures the essence of the Tuscan spa experience, blending luxurious florals, invigorating botanicals, and soothing minerals into a fragrance that promises both calm and rejuvenation. For over a decade, this scent resonated with those seeking a moment of serenity and indulgence, with its soothing aroma still available as late as 1998 before it was discontinued. However, this aromatic treasure was not lost to time—after a few years, it was reimagined and relaunched, in limited editions available with a fresh perspective but still honoring its timeless appeal.

The fragrance opens with an Elemi Oil Accord, a key ingredient in its composition that invites a sense of calmness and clarity. This essential oil, known for its grounding properties, gently unravels a smooth, resinous warmth that promotes relaxation and mental focus. As the scent evolves, the bright, airy quality of freesia introduces a delicate floral sweetness that feels almost weightless—a light, ethereal touch that contrasts beautifully with the deeper, soothing elements of the fragrance. Together, the Elemi and freesia evoke the soothing, almost healing nature of a spa experience, where each note works in harmony to provide a calming atmosphere.

The Acqua di Vita Complex—a central element of the scent—brings a vitalizing boost to the fragrance. Known for its hydrating and skin-revitalizing properties, this complex is said to invigorate skin cells, offering a sensation of freshness as if the wearer is enveloped in the rejuvenating waters of a natural spa. This invigorating element pairs effortlessly with the underlying richness of the fragrance, creating a sense of radiant well-being that transcends beyond just the sense of smell.

Profumo Di Montecatini continues to captivate with its rich, nature-inspired essence, drawing on the luxurious ambiance of the Tuscan spa experience. The fragrance’s evocative blend of florals warmed by gentle woods and exotic botanicals creates a multi-layered experience—one that not only soothes the senses but also refreshes and revitalizes the spirit. In its revitalized form, the perfume remains as effective as ever at enhancing the skin’s vitality, as the experience of wearing it is recommended to be complemented by the use of products such as the Borghese Sali Esfoliante Salt Scrub and Borghese Tono Body Lotion, which work together to smooth and hydrate, enhancing the aromatherapeutic effects of the fragrance.

When sprayed generously, Profumo Di Montecatini envelopes the wearer in an aura of calm invigoration, the scent offering an exquisite balance of therapeutic benefits and sensual pleasure. It's a fragrance that speaks to a deeper connection to nature, one that invokes both clarity and peace, while uplifting the spirit with its timeless Tuscan allure.

Flankers:

In 1987, the Montecatini line was expanded with two additional flankers, each embodying the healing and transformative powers of scent as part of the Giardini di Montecatini fragrance collection. Drawing on the ancient philosophy of aromatherapy, these fragrances were designed not just as scents, but as emotional experiences—each with a unique personality and purpose, aimed at enhancing the wearer's emotional and physical well-being.

Both fragrances in the Giardini di Montecatini collection carry the essence of Italy’s Montecatini Terme Spa, with their delicate blends evoking an experience of both physical and emotional renewal. Press materials emphasized how these scents "send messages that affect our deepest feelings," providing a transformative experience that harmonizes body and spirit. The formulations were designed to complement this philosophy, bringing an aesthetic and sensual quality to every moment of the wearer’s day. Just as the scents themselves are carefully crafted to evoke emotions, the packaging mirrored the traditional, authentic design of the Montecatini farmacia, completing the unparalleled sensory experience.

These two flankers, Giardini di Montecatini XII and Giardini di Montecatini VI, introduced an exciting expansion to the brand's legacy, offering fragrances that promise not just to scent the body but to invigorate, soothe, and elevate the soul. Whether choosing "The Path of Awakening Emotions" or "The Path of High Spirits," these fragrances serve as fragrant pathways to a peaceful, rejuvenating garden of self-care and serenity.

Giardini di Montecatini XII – "The Path of Awakening Emotions"

Launched in 1987, Giardini di Montecatini XII is classified as a lush floral fragrance for women. It is an exhilarating blend of "verdant grasses and wild flowers used to evoke high spirits." It begins with sparkling top notes, followed by a wild flower heart, resting on an herbal, grassy base.

• Top notes: aldehydes, Calabrian bergamot, Sicilian lemon, galbanum
• Middle notes: jasmine, rose, Tuscan violet, lily of the valley, and Roman chamomile
• Base notes: lavender, sage, vetiver, hay, oakmoss, cedar, coriander, musk, civet

Giardini di Montecatini XII invites you to step into an idyllic garden, an enchanting retreat nestled in the heart of Tuscany, where the vibrant energy of nature converges with the calming, therapeutic essence of Italy's historic Montecatini spa. This lush floral fragrance for women, with its invigorating blend of verdant grasses and wildflowers, evokes high spirits and a sense of renewal, as if breathing in the very essence of a Tuscan garden under a clear, sunlit sky. Each note, carefully selected, represents the finest of Italy’s botanical offerings, enhancing the sensory journey with a unique and uplifting experience.

The fragrance opens with a sparkling citrus burst from Calabrian bergamot and Sicilian lemon. The Calabrian bergamot, grown in the southern coastal regions of Italy, is prized for its distinctive, lively zest. This particular variety, with its vibrant, slightly bitter edge and sweet floral undertones, lends an immediate sense of freshness and clarity, awakening the senses much like a gentle morning breeze in an Italian orchard. Sicilian lemon, with its bright, zesty aroma, further intensifies this vibrant opening, adding an energetic sparkle that recalls the crispness of the Italian air on a sun-dappled afternoon. The galbanum, a resin derived from the Persian plant, introduces a green, slightly peppery note, evoking the aromatic richness of Italian forests, where wild herbs and lush greenery flourish, offering an earthy, aromatic depth that complements the bright citrus.

As the fragrance develops, the heart reveals a wildflower bouquet that envelops the senses with the essence of nature’s purest blooms. The unmistakable floral sweetness of jasmine fills the air, its heady, exotic scent reminiscent of lush Tuscan gardens in full bloom. This particular variety of jasmine, grown under the Mediterranean sun, has a deeper, more intoxicating richness than other types, creating an air of mystery and allure. Tuscan rose, a variety known for its richness and elegance, imparts a soft yet full-bodied floral heart that adds depth and timeless beauty to the composition. The delicate, powdery sweetness of Tuscan violet evokes the image of these dainty flowers nestled among the rich green foliage of the Italian countryside, while lily of the valley brings a fresh, dewy quality to the heart, its light floral notes softening and balancing the more opulent florals. The addition of Roman chamomile, revered for its calming properties, enhances the overall bouquet with its gentle, apple-like sweetness, creating a serene harmony that transports you to a peaceful garden.

The base of Giardini di Montecatini XII grounds the fragrance in a tranquil, herbaceous embrace. Lavender, synonymous with the soothing scents of Provence and Tuscany alike, adds a gentle, calming layer, its fresh, aromatic character evoking the rolling hills of Italy where lavender fields sway in the warm breeze. The crisp, green herbal notes of sage lend a touch of earthiness, a tribute to the Mediterranean landscape, where this fragrant herb is known to thrive, offering a clarity and purification to the fragrance. Vetiver brings an earthy, smoky depth to the base, its dry, woody scent evoking the rugged Italian landscape, where the roots of plants intertwine with the soil beneath. The addition of hay gives a subtly sweet, warm undertone, reminiscent of sun-dried grasses in the fields of Tuscany during summer harvests. As the fragrance continues to unfold, the grounding elements of oakmoss and cedar create a woody, mossy foundation, evoking the rustic charm of Italy’s ancient woodlands and offering a sense of timeless stability. The fragrance closes with the subtle warmth of coriander, adding a lightly spicy, aromatic touch, and a soft, animalic sensuality from musk and civet, lending a mysterious and intimate finish, as if the lingering scent is kissed by the earth itself.

Incorporating the best of Italy’s botanical treasures, Giardini di Montecatini XII is an aromatic journey through the lush, natural landscape of Tuscany, where the invigorating beauty of wildflowers and the calming influence of nature come together to evoke a sense of rejuvenation and serenity. Just as the Montecatini spa has long been celebrated for its healing properties, this fragrance too offers a soothing and uplifting experience, guiding the wearer on a fragrant path toward emotional clarity and peaceful well-being. Each note, carefully curated from the land of Italy, transports you to a serene garden, where high spirits and tranquility coexist in perfect harmony.

Giardini di Montecatini VI – "The Path of High Spirits"

Launched in 1987, Giardini di Montecatini VI is classified as a earthy floral fragrance for women. It is a "sensual, velvety blend of earthy moss and exotic blooms used to used to enhance sensuality." Begins with a citrusy top, followed by an exotic floral heart punctuated with a hint of spices, resting on an earthy, mossy base.

• Top notes: Calabrian bergamot, Sicilian lemon, Italian mandarin orange, grapefruit, petitgrain
• Middle notes: tuberose, gardenia, ylang-ylang, frangipani, clove and cinnamon
• Base notes: vetiver, patchouli, myrrh, oakmoss, sandalwood, musk, labdanum, benzoin, ambergris

Giardini di Montecatini VI embodies the rich, sensual allure of Italy’s timeless gardens, offering an earthy floral fragrance that captures the heart of nature’s most exotic blooms and grounding, earthy elements. This fragrance, with its sensual, velvety blend, evokes the essence of Italy's lush, fragrant landscapes, calling to mind the ancient, healing gardens of the Montecatini spa, where the delicate balance of nature and luxury come together to soothe both body and spirit. Each note is a testament to Italy's unique botanical heritage, meticulously chosen to create an enveloping, harmonious scent that evokes a sense of mystery and allure, perfect for the sophisticated woman.

The fragrance opens with a citrusy brightness, where Calabrian bergamot, Sicilian lemon, Italian mandarin orange, and grapefruit come together in a refreshing burst of zest. The Calabrian bergamot—hailing from Italy’s coastal region—is especially revered for its unique balance of bright, citrusy sharpness and subtly floral undertones. This variety, cultivated in the sun-drenched groves of southern Italy, imparts a distinct, sophisticated freshness that is neither too bitter nor too sweet, creating a sparkling clarity that enlivens the senses. The Sicilian lemon, with its tangy, fragrant peel, and the vibrant Italian mandarin orange, bursting with sweet, citrusy warmth, provide a radiant, energizing top that transports you to the lively orchards of Italy’s Mediterranean coast. The grapefruit adds a touch of bitterness, invigorating the composition with its sharp, tangy aroma, while petitgrain, derived from the leaves of the bitter orange tree, softens the citrus burst with its slightly woody, herbal scent, bringing an early sense of complexity to the fragrance.

As the fragrance settles, it evolves into an exotic floral heart, rich with the lush, heady blossoms of tuberose, gardenia, ylang-ylang, and frangipani. Tuberose, with its velvety, intoxicating sweetness, fills the air like a warm breeze passing through a garden at night. Its creamy, floral richness, reminiscent of sultry summer evenings in the Tuscan countryside, is complemented by the lush, garden-like freshness of gardenia—its white, waxy petals releasing a rich, intoxicating scent that feels both feminine and full of mystery. The tropical, sweetly floral essence of ylang-ylang deepens the floral bouquet, adding an exotic, almost spicy element that transports you to the fragrant gardens of southern Italy, where this blossom thrives under the Mediterranean sun. The frangipani, with its delicate, sweet floral notes and slightly creamy undertone, contributes an ethereal quality, like the lightest touch of flowers resting on the skin, evoking the warm breezes of Italy’s coastlines. Punctuating the floral heart, a hint of clove and cinnamon adds an unexpected, spicy warmth, creating a depth that enhances the richness of the flowers with their sweet, aromatic heat, invoking the bustling markets of Italy where spices mingle with fresh flowers in the air.

The fragrance’s base is anchored in a deep, earthy warmth, where vetiver, patchouli, myrrh, oakmoss, sandalwood, musk, labdanum, benzoin, and ambergris converge to form a sensual and grounding finish. Vetiver, sourced from the roots of grasses grown in Italy's warm, fertile soil, imparts a smoky, woody depth, evoking the sensation of walking through an ancient Italian forest where the earth’s richness permeates the air. Patchouli, known for its deep, musky, and slightly spicy aroma, adds a sense of mystique and allure, reminiscent of Italy’s rich history of perfume making, where patchouli was a signature note in the creations of many iconic Italian perfumeries. The myrrh, with its resinous, balsamic sweetness, deepens the earthy warmth of the base, offering a rich, incense-like quality that evokes the spiritual serenity of the Montecatini spa, where ancient therapeutic rituals have long taken place. The presence of oakmoss brings a touch of woodland freshness, conjuring images of moss-covered stones in the cool shade of Italian forest glades, while sandalwood adds a creamy, soft woody note that is both grounding and soothing. The sensuality is heightened by the animalic warmth of musk and the resinous, honeyed depth of labdanum and benzoin, adding a rich, velvety smoothness to the composition. Ambergris, with its oceanic, animalic quality, brings a touch of luxury and intrigue, rounding off the fragrance with a unique, slightly salty sweetness that conjures images of Mediterranean shores and their mysterious, timeless allure.

Giardini di Montecatini VI is a fragrance that weaves together Italy's natural richness, from its citrus groves to its exotic floral gardens, and its ancient earthiness, creating a complex yet harmonious composition. It transports you to the serene and sensual gardens of Montecatini, where lush blooms and earthy mosses intertwine to create a fragrance that enhances both serenity and sensuality. This fragrance encapsulates the Italian spirit of luxury, nature, and timeless beauty, offering a sensory escape that is as grounding as it is exhilarating.

Product Line:

The Giardini di Montecatini product line, introduced in 1987 (original prices in parenthesis), offered a luxurious and holistic experience that captured the essence of Italy’s rich heritage in aromatic treatments and spa culture. Drawing inspiration from the ancient therapeutic practices of the Montecatini spa and the healing traditions of the Etruscans, each product in the line was designed to promote well-being, relaxation, and rejuvenation through the power of scent. The line’s focus on natural botanicals and rich, soothing aromas mirrored the calm, restorative atmosphere of the Montecatini gardens, known for their calming effects on both body and mind.

The Eau de Parfum Vaporisateur (2.5 oz, $40) is the centerpiece of the collection, a sophisticated, refreshing fragrance that encapsulates the invigorating, natural beauty of the Italian countryside. With its delicate balance of floral, citrus, and earthy notes, this fragrance was designed to be worn throughout the day, offering a spritz of elegance and a burst of energy. The vaporisateur spray allowed for an effortless application of the scent, perfect for enveloping oneself in the serene, aromatic atmosphere of the Montecatini gardens at any time.

The Essenza di Profumo Perfumed Oil (1.6 oz, $30) offered an even more intimate experience. This rich, concentrated oil could be applied directly onto the skin’s pulse points, where the warmth of the body would intensify its aroma. Known for its potency, just a few drops of this oil were enough to create a lasting, sensual scent that lingered throughout the day or evening. It could also be added to bath water, transforming an ordinary bath into a luxurious, aromatic soak. The essence of the Profumo di Montecatini fragrance in this format provided a deeply personal connection to the scent, wrapping the wearer in its velvety, invigorating embrace.

For those seeking a more portable aromatic experience, the Vapore di Vita Aromatic Stick ($20) was a unique offering. Inspired by the Etruscan custom of pounding herbs into a paste and applying them to the temples and forehead, this compact stick was designed to invigorate the senses and combat stress. Its soothing aroma could be applied directly to the skin for an immediate sense of calm and mental clarity, providing a quick, on-the-go escape from the hectic pace of modern life. Its small size, about twice that of a lipstick tube, made it an easy companion for those needing a moment of relaxation or focus, whether at home or traveling.

The Lozione per il Corpo Body Elixir (8 oz, $30) was a luxurious body lotion, designed to hydrate and nourish the skin while enveloping the body in the same soothing, aromatic fragrance as the Eau de Parfum. Its light texture allowed for easy absorption, leaving the skin feeling soft and refreshed without being greasy. Perfect for daily use, this lotion offered a spa-like experience with every application, making it an ideal complement to the other products in the line.

For a richer, more indulgent experience, the Crema per il Corpo Body Cream (9 oz, $45) offered deep hydration and nourishment, enveloping the body in a thick, velvety texture that softened even the driest skin. Infused with the same aromatic ingredients as the fragrance collection, this body cream provided a long-lasting fragrance while leaving the skin feeling smooth, supple, and pampered. It was a luxurious addition to any skincare routine, offering both sensory pleasure and skin benefits.

The Le Bagnature Aromatic Bath Bags ($30) provided an immersive, relaxing experience in the form of herbal-filled sachets that could be added to bath water. Infused with the natural botanicals that were a hallmark of the Montecatini spa experience, these bath bags allowed the bather to indulge in the ancient Etruscan tradition of soothing, aromatic baths. As the bags dissolved in warm water, their fragrant herbs released calming, therapeutic oils, turning an ordinary bath into a sensory retreat.

Finally, the Fiori Aromatici Soothing Botanics ($40) offered a delicate, Etruscan-inspired ceramic bowl filled with a botanical blend designed to refresh and calm the senses. This soothing potpourri, with its rich mix of flowers and herbs, could be placed in a room to naturally scent the air, adding a touch of tranquility and beauty to any space. Its carefully selected botanicals—rooted in the ancient Italian practice of using flowers and herbs for their therapeutic properties—served as both a decorative and aromatic element, further enhancing the overall sense of peace and relaxation that the Profumo di Montecatini line evoked.

Together, these products formed a complete, immersive experience that mirrored the calming rituals of the Montecatini spa. With their focus on natural ingredients, ancient traditions, and luxurious sensory pleasure, the Profumo di Montecatini line provided a holistic approach to wellness, inviting users to slow down, reconnect with nature, and indulge in moments of serenity and relaxation.

Packaging:

When the Giardini di Montecatini fragrance line was preparing for its 1987 launch, Princess Marcella Borghese, then a division of Revlon, faced an unexpected setback. The company had initially hoped to source high-quality paperboard packaging from an American supplier, but when the required standards and timelines could not be met, they turned to an unlikely source—a family-run English company, Robinsons of Chesterfield in Derbyshire. Robinsons' rigid packaging unit, known for its meticulous craftsmanship, rose to the challenge, working tirelessly to produce and dispatch an enormous order of 131,000 boxes in just four weeks. The commitment to excellence was evident, as the factory worked around the clock, with a remarkable amount of overtime put in to meet the stringent deadline.

This ambitious task came at a considerable cost—£80,000 for the initial order. Yet the outcome was a resounding success. The beautifully crafted boxes, each round or oval in shape, impressed American consumers so much that the Borghese line had to place a second order for an additional 70,000 boxes. The demand for the Giardini di Montecatini fragrances proved that the packaging was as much a part of the allure as the products themselves. Marketing manager of Robinsons' rigid packaging unit, M. Jonathan Basford, spoke proudly of the achievement, noting that the company's ability to produce such a large variety of box sizes in one factory was a key factor in their success. "One of the major criteria for the job was our ability to do the vast range of sizes that were needed," he said. "It was a tremendous morale booster in the factory."

The complex design of the packaging was deeply rooted in the history and heritage of the Montecatini Gardens, the famed Etruscan spa that inspired the fragrance range. The pattern on the boxes was inspired by an actual tile from the gardens, a subtle nod to the timeless, natural beauty of the landscape that influenced the aromatic ingredients of the products. Ripley Printers, another company in Derbyshire, was responsible for the intricate printing work that adorned the packaging. Their expertise in creating fine, detailed prints ensured that the design reflected the high standards of luxury associated with the Borghese name. Together, Robinsons and Ripley Printers brought the vision for the Giardini di Montecatini line to life, creating packaging that was as much a work of art as the fragrances it housed.

This collaboration not only showcased the dedication and skill of these British companies but also highlighted the international nature of the fragrance industry, where quality and craftsmanship transcended borders to bring a luxurious experience to consumers around the world.

 

Fate of the Fragrances:

The Giardini di Montecatini fragrance line, a signature collection by Princess Marcella Borghese, introduced two particularly captivating scents: Giardini di Montecatini XII and Giardini di Montecatini VI. These fragrances, launched in 1987, embody the rich history and aromatic traditions of the Montecatini spa in Italy, which served as the inspiration for the entire range. Despite their initial success and appeal, both fragrances have been discontinued for many years, making them incredibly difficult to find in today’s market.

Giardini di Montecatini XII and Giardini di Montecatini VI were both unique in their compositions, crafted to evoke specific emotional experiences. Giardini di Montecatini XII, with its lush, floral composition, was designed to awaken the senses with its vibrant blend of wildflowers and verdant grasses, while Giardini di Montecatini VI, a more earthy and sensual creation, was imbued with exotic blooms and the deep, grounding notes of moss and wood. The two fragrances were part of a carefully curated line that promised an experience steeped in the therapeutic and restorative qualities of the ancient aromatic treatments used at the Montecatini spa.

Over time, as the fragrance market shifted and new offerings were introduced, both scents were quietly phased out of production. Despite their limited availability in the years following their initial success, these fragrances quickly became elusive and highly coveted. Today, finding bottles of Giardini di Montecatini XII or Giardini di Montecatini VI is a rare and often expensive pursuit. Collectors and fragrance enthusiasts alike search high and low for these vintage scents, which have become symbols of a bygone era of luxury and refinement.

Their discontinuation around 1991 has only added to their allure, with those fortunate enough to encounter a bottle often finding themselves preserving it as a prized piece of fragrance history. For many, these two fragrances represent more than just a sensory experience—they are a cherished link to a time when scent was intertwined with beauty, tradition, and the serenity of Italy's famous gardens.

Looking for Borghese's Montecatini products?