Intangible Olfactory Heritage in Museum Practice

This chapter introduces the origins and basic principles of olfactory museology and the philosophy on which it is based. Olfactory museology focuses on deciphering the olfactory significance of museum artifacts and addressing the methodological, historical, and ethical complexities associated with the incorporation of scent in the museum environment. In the field of scent-based museology, the primary and obvious approach of museums is the presentation of fragrant artifacts to engage visitors and enhance their overall museum experience. In addition, museums use scented environments, both indoors and outdoors, to recreate and immerse visitors in past eras. Valuable sources of information include written records documenting various scents, as well as direct interactions and concise educational films. Some museum stores do offer souvenirs related to smells, but it is often observed that these items have little relation to the current exhibitions.