Experience the Fascination of Incense in Altötting

Its fragrance is closely connected to the High Masses celebrated by the church. Many people have experienced its beneficial and pain-relieving effect. At times there is something mystical about incense, and at other times it is just relaxing. "At our small incense museum, we wish to show our guests the craftsmanship that goes into such products and how much there is to be learned about incense” says Eva Kilwing. She initiated the incense museum (including concept shop) which is located at the Chapel Square 2 (Kapellplatz 2) in Altötting. A visit to the museum is very informative, and many secrets are revealed.

The relatively small room is stylishly furnished. There is a gleam in the eyes of every visitor when they see the colourful and beautifully arranged blends on display at the Weihrauchmanufaktur Kilwing (Incense Manufactory Kilwing). Even more pleasant, relaxing and soothing are the very interesting fragrances, which are not obtrusive at all.

Visitors experience the myth of incense with all their senses. The brief discovery tour starts with a look at the large sacks on the floor. "They contain the dried resinous gum of Boswellia trees, which we obtain from various harvest areas" explains Kilwing. The mighty trees grow only under certain climatic conditions. Calcareous soils, desert climate and trade winds all have a favourable effect on their growth. Moreover, the moisture generated by monsoons is also of vital importance. Incense originates from the South Arabian region, such as Oman, as well as from countries along the Horn of Africa or from India. "The entire incense production chain is based on nothing but manual work, starting with the resin harvest stretching over several months" says Eva Kilwing. Visitors also do "manual work" when they put large dried pieces of resin into their hands. They exude an exquisite scent. "The time of harvest, the Boswellia variety, the harvest region, a certain colour and size of the resin are decisive factors for optimum quality. Large pieces store the essential oils best" the expert points out. In view of its colour, the pure natural product is called "white gold". "The trees are all family owned. They are sometimes used as a dowry. In the old days, this important resource was the subject of many a fight" says Eva Kilwing.