The Life of Antoine Soradora

Antoine Soradora was born on 16 July 1902 in Loulé, a small town in southern Portugal. His parents were farmers and deeply religious, which left a lasting mark on the young man's life. Passionate about nature and fragrances, Antoine was also very solitary and thoughtful. At 18, he found himself facing a difficult choice: follow the path laid out for him or leave his country to live life to the fullest.

Antoine's Passion for Fragrances

Antoine Soradora paid close attention to each of the scents that shaped the contours of his everyday surroundings. From the lavender growing wild along the roadsides, to the merging of earth and water, to the burst of a spring at the edge of a woodland, to peat and hay, to freshly cut grass in spring, flowers, and fruit, all these smells awakened his senses and inspired him.

Antoine Soradora and His Arrival in France

In 1920, as winter seemed never-ending, Antoine Soradora learned news that would change the course of his life: "France is recruiting foreign labour to supply its vast mining operations," his friend Sandro whispered to him. Without looking back, Antoine Soradora made the decision to leave his native land.