Istanbul: Perfume & Rose Water Workshop + Incense Ritual

Step out of the bustling streets of the Old City and into the fragrant, historical atmosphere of Pasha’s Arts & Crafts for a 90-minute sensory journey. This hands-on masterclass invites you to discover the deeply rooted fragrance culture of the Ottoman Empire, from the royal courts of Topkapı Palace to the purifying rituals of the historical hammams.

​Part 1: The Alchemy of Rose Water (Gül Suyu)
Begin by learning why Mehmed the Conqueror purified the Hagia Sophia with rose water. You will manually prepare Damask roses (Rosa damascena) from Isparta and set up a traditional “inverted lid” steam distillation process. As your pot simmers, the room will fill with the intoxicating scent of fresh roses, yielding a pure, cosmetic-grade hydrosol for you to bottle.

​Part 2: The Master Perfumer (Esans Blending)
While your rose water distills, you will step into the shoes of a palace alchemist. Learn the distinct difference between heavy bazaar oils and refined palace blends. Using a skin-nourishing golden jojoba oil base, you will use glass pipettes to mix your own 10ml signature scent. Anchor your perfume with heavy base notes like Oud or traditional Turkish Bath essence (White Musk), build the heart with pure rose, and crown it with bright, unexpected top notes like sweet strawberry.

​Part 3: The Grand Incense Ritual (Buhur)
As your bespoke creations settle, participate in a breathtaking historical hospitality ritual. One guest will be invited to don a rich, traditional Ottoman caftan. A brass censer (buhurdanlık) burning pure frankincense, sweetgum resin, and agarwood will be passed hand-to-hand, wafting fragrant smoke over the garments—exactly as it was done centuries ago to honor distinguished palace guests.
​Conclude the experience by bottling your freshly distilled rose water, writing your custom parchment labels, and sealing your distinct Ottoman souvenirs.