Ancient Perfume Show in Rome

A team of archaeologists digging at the Pyrgos-Mavroraki site in Cyprus uncovered in 2003 what is believed to have been a perfume laboratory. Using 14 original fragrances dating from 4,000 years ago, they recreated four perfumes which are now on display in Rome. Unlike modern perfumes based on chemical scents, these perfumes were largely made out of a mix of natural spices and olive oil. The exhibition "The Perfumes of Aphrodite and the Secret of Oil", which opened March 14, runs through September 2. If you're in Rome, make sure you don't miss this rare chance to smell a 4,000 years old perfume! (and let us know how it was).