Bergamot is a small yellow citrus fruit, about the size of a small orange. It is thought to be a cross between a bitter orange and a lime.
Widely cultivated in the Italian region of Calabria, this fruit is nevertheless thought to have originated in the East. Its name is said to be inspired by the Turkish word "Ben Armudi", meaning "Lord's pear". It is believed that the Crusaders introduced it to Europe, or perhaps Christopher Columbus brought it back from the Spanish islands. Some indeed believe that Bergamot gets its name from the Spanish city of "Berga" where it was cultivated.
Its sweet and spicy fragrance is highly prized in perfumery. You know this scent; it's that of Earl Grey, a bergamot-flavored tea.
Its essential oil is also used to make "Bergamotes de Nancy", small, slightly tart square candies, a specialty of Lorraine since the 19th century.
Although not consumed as a fruit, Bergamot has established its many qualities. Its essence is obtained by cold pressing its fresh zest. By inhaling it, you will rediscover the freshness of the fruit, its sensual fragrance, and its zest. Like many citrus fruits, simply breathing in Bergamot should bring a smile to your face. If you manage its photosensitizing risk, you will find in it a superb ally for relaxation. Discover all the possible uses of Bergamot Essential Oil thanks to our reference authors.
For a bit of history, in Jean-Pierre Jeunet's film "Amélie", the heroine finds a tin of Lefèvre Georges brand "Bergamotes de Nancy" hidden in the baseboard of her apartment. Fans see this as a nod to the director's student years in the Lorraine capital.
But how did Italian Bergamot make it to Nancy?
Probably thanks to René II of Lorraine, Duke of Lorraine and... King of Sicily! Pilgrims are thought to have transported Bergamot from Italy to the Basilica of Saint-Nicolas-de-Port, near Nancy.
