Legends of
Kiliquia
The Enchanting Tale of Princess Zabel
While the tale of Princess Zabel and Aram is not part of traditional Armenian folklore,
it was lovingly crafted by Kiliquia to capture the spirit of a time, a place, and a longing for freedom.
Inspired by real historical elements —such as the Kingdom of Cilicia, the Armenian royal family, and the trade routes with Venice— this story blends fact with fiction to evoke a timeless romance between East and West.
This legend is part of the soul of Kiliquia, connecting perfume, memory, and identity through a story that speaks of beauty found beyond borders.
A Princess in the
Kingdom of Cilicia
In 13th-century Armenia, Princess Zabel is born as the youngest daughter of King Haiton I and Queen Isabella.
Surrounded by eight older brothers, she grows up admired for her grace, curiosity, and radiant beauty.
Her closest confidante is her older sister, Princess Fimi — admired for her strength and wisdom.
Zabel dreams beyond the walls of her royal life, longing for something yet unknown.
A Chance
Encounter in Ani
During the annual grape fair in Ani, Zabel meets Aram, a young Venetian sailor. Their eyes meet; a spark is lit. Aram speaks of Venice — its carnivals, its color, its freedom. What begins as chance soon turns into love, growing with each encounter.
Zabel listens, enchanted, sharing her dreams with
Aram and confiding only in Fimi.
Between
Duty and Desire
The king announces Zabel must marry a Byzantine prince a political match. But Zabel rebels. She wants to explore the world, not live a life chosen for her. Enraged, her father imprisons her in the tower; Aram is banished from the kingdom. Torn by duty and love, Zabel refuses to forget him.
The Escape
to Venice
On a moonlit autumn night, Zabel escapes with help from Fimi and Aram’s companions. She boards the merchant ship that once carried Aram sailing toward freedom.Her royal past fades behind her as she begins a new life across the sea. What once was a dream now becomes destiny.
The Legend
of Sabelia
In Venice, an Armenian woman named Sabelia becomes known for her oils and perfumed waters. She is Zabel — reborn, free, and thriving, now mother to four, her eldest named Aram.Her story becomes a whispered legend across apothecaries and canals. A tale of love, courage, and the pursuit of one’s own path.
