The Scent Landscape of Karosta
Karosta often attracts visitors with its rich history. But have you ever wondered what this part of Liepāja smells like? My new project aims to embark on an unusual, sensory journey to identify and map the scent landscape of Karosta. I’m seeking those unique and valuable scents that tell stories of natural ecosystem interactions, local community life, and cultural-historical information. The result will be a Karosta scent map, allowing everyone — both local residents and city guests — to experience Karosta through its smells. This scent archive will serve for the possible digitalization and reproduction of scents in the future.
Methodology
To accurately identify Karosta’s scent landscape, I used a multifaceted methodology. Initially, a workshop was held with 12 children who created maps, marking pleasant and unpleasant smells, as well as those associated with specific memories. Additionally, I conducted expert interviews with a biologist and representatives of the art community to gain deeper insight into the specifics of Karosta’s scents. Data collection was supplemented by direct observations in nature. In total, approximately 20 aromas were identified, from which I selected six main aromas after careful evaluation. These were described in detail and archived with the aim of digitalizing and reproducing them in the future.
1. Scent of Black Alder Grove
One of the most interesting discoveries in Karosta’s scent landscape was the specific aroma of the black alder grove. This type of forest is rarely found in Europe, but in Karosta, it occupies a relatively large area, serving as a natural sponge that absorbs excess water during rainy periods. Its scent is characterized by a muddy biomass note. Although the concentration was relatively low, I perceived it by taking multiple deep breaths.
To archive this unique aroma, I recorded it in a capsule using a manual 2.2-liter SUP pump. The capsule contained a sorbent mixture — half silica gel and half activated carbon. The recording process lasted three minutes, during which 352 liters of air were drawn through the sorbent mix, and then the capsule was hermetically sealed. The recording was made on June 5, 2025, at approximately 7:00 PM.
2. Scent of Sweet Vernal Grass
In Karosta, especially in the pine forests near the dune line, a relatively large amount of sweet vernal grass can be found — a widely distributed grass species in Europe. This sweet vernal grass, which has the aroma of freshly cut hay, is known for its medicinal properties, including the ability to soothe coughs and vomiting, as well as its sedative and pain-relieving effects. When crushed or torn, the scent is released, acquiring a distinct nutty aroma.
To archive this unique aroma, I recorded it in a capsule using a manual 2.2-liter SUP pump. I made the recording in a hotel room, crushing the collected grass beforehand. The capsule contained a sorbent mixture — half silica gel and half activated carbon. The recording process lasted three minutes, during which 352 liters of air were drawn through the sorbent mix, and then the capsule was hermetically sealed. This recording was made on June 6, 2025, at approximately 9:00 AM.
3. Scent of the Northern Breakwater
Children often mentioned the Karosta breakwater as a place where one of the most pleasant scents prevails. The breakwater is not just a place with the classic sea aroma; it is also a popular meeting and walking spot for Liepāja residents. A particularly interesting aspect of the scent emerges near the fishermen’s area. Here, the sea scent is supplemented and enriched by the aromas of fish and human presence, creating a unique composition. This scent combination has a relatively low concentration, so to perceive it, multiple deep breaths are necessary. Since the breakwater is long and open, the nose adapts to these smells relatively quickly, making them less perceptible later on.
To archive this unique aroma, I recorded it in a capsule using a manual 2.2-liter SUP pump. I made the recording in a hotel room. The capsule contained a sorbent mixture — half silica gel and half activated carbon. The recording process lasted three minutes, during which 352 liters of air were drawn through the sorbent mix, and then the capsule was hermetically sealed. This recording was made on June 5, 2025, at approximately 9:45 PM.
4. Scent of the Liepāja St. Nicholas Orthodox Naval Cathedral Service
The central point of Karosta is the Liepāja St. Nicholas Orthodox Naval Cathedral. Here, five days a week (every Saturday and Sunday) from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM, church services take place. During these services, the church fills with the scent of candles and myrrh, which is diffused throughout the space with the help of an censer. This special ritualistic aroma is very strong and affective, serving as a source of shared memories for many Karosta residents. The church is indeed a place where locals gather every morning, effectively becoming a community center.
To archive this significant aroma, I recorded it in two types of sorbents — silica gel and activated carbon. After blowing the scent through both capsules, I concluded that the best recording was achieved in silica gel, so I preserved this particular capsule for the archive. For recording, I used a manual 2.2-liter SUP pump, performing the process in a hotel room. The recording lasted three minutes, during which 352 liters of air were drawn through the sorbent mixture, and then the capsule was hermetically sealed. This recording was made on June 5, 2025, at approximately 10:00 AM.
5. Scent of Tarred Fences in Allotment Gardens
The allotment gardens in Karosta are often adorned with black wooden fences, which have gained their dark color by being tarred. This specific scent is quite noticeable and fills another community space in Karosta — the allotment gardens, where people grow various plants and fruits. Although this tar smell is noticeable, it is not overly intense. I also observed a relatively high traffic flow in this area.
To archive this unique aroma, I recorded it in a capsule containing a sorbent mixture — half silica gel and half activated carbon. The recording process lasted three minutes, during which 352 liters of air were drawn through the sorbent mix, and then the capsule was hermetically sealed. This recording was made on June 5, 2025, at approximately 7:45 PM.
6. Scent of the “Vojentorg” Room in Karosta Prison
Children particularly highlighted the scents of stone buildings in Karosta’s scent landscape, most often mentioning the Karosta Prison (museum). Inside the prison, there’s a room called “Vojentorg” that everyone can visit for free. This room not only holds the scent of stone but also the aromas of various Soviet-era objects. This scent tells the story of Karosta’s Soviet-era history, and it’s highly possible that certain generations will encounter scents in this room that evoke special memories for them.
I also recorded this aroma in a capsule containing a sorbent mixture — half silica gel and half activated carbon. The recording process lasted three minutes, during which 352 liters of air were drawn through the sorbent mix, and then the capsule was hermetically sealed. This recording was made on June 6, 2025, at approximately 10:30 AM.
