Armani Could Be Sued Over "Alhambra" Fragrance

Oranger Alhambra

Who knew that the name of one of Spain's most famous monuments is trademarked? Apparently, Giorgio Armani didn't, and now he is facing legal action for naming one of his fragrances after the Alhambra monument in Granada.

The fragrance in question, Oranger Alhambra, is part of the Armani Prive collection, and is described as an olfactory hymn to the gardens of the Andalusian fort. But Armani reportedly launched it without proper authorization to use the trademarked name, and the trustees of the Alhambra Palace are now asking for an explanation and are considering legal action.

"Armani have not sought permission," said Maria del Mar Villafranca of the Patrono de la Alhambra y el Generalife. "The use of a trademark associated with a public monument and world heritage site should not be used for private gain."

The trustees, however, have expressed willingness to negotiate a mutually beneficial arrangement for the use of the name, the commercial use of which has bee restricted since 2001 to protect the reputation of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

Armani has until Sept 1 to respond to the complaint or the matter will go to the courts, Villafranca said.

source