Cabiria

The Verdict

Cabiria represents an interesting departure within the Tiziana Terenzi lineup. Named after a character from Federico Fellini's cinematic universe, this 2020 release from perfumer Paolo Terenzi takes the house's signature richness and channels it through a greener, fresher lens. Where many Tiziana Terenzi fragrances lean heavily into sweetness, Cabiria exercises restraint, using its fruity and sweet DNA "very gently and cautiously" according to community reviewers.

The community reception has been largely positive, with particular praise for the fragrance's performance and its departure from the brand's sweeter tendencies. However, the price point remains a consistent sticking point, with many reviewers noting that while Cabiria is a genuinely good fragrance, the retail price of over 400 euros feels unjustified for what it delivers.

What It Smells Like

The opening is a vibrant burst of green apple, mint, melon, pear, cassis, and freshly cut grass that creates an immediately uplifting impression. Some reviewers note a powdery blast in the first 15 minutes that can be divisive, but this quickly dissipates to reveal the fruity-green character underneath.

As the heart develops, Bulgarian rose and jasmine sambac emerge alongside heliotrope and ambergris, adding a warm floral richness that grounds the initial freshness. The transition from fruity-green to floral-amber is where Cabiria shows its complexity, though some reviewers find this middle phase somewhat generic. The drydown settles into a warm base of cedar, birch, vanilla, and musk that can last well into the next day on clothing.

When to Wear It

Cabiria is best suited for cooler temperatures where its projection can be appreciated without becoming overwhelming. Evening events, date nights, and special occasions provide the ideal backdrop for its bold character. However, its green and fruity opening gives it enough freshness to work in spring as well.

A word of caution from the community: this is a beast of a fragrance. Two sprays are sufficient to project across a room, so restraint in application is strongly advised.

Longevity & Projection

Performance is where Cabiria truly excels. Longevity is rated 9 out of 10 by review sites, with wearers reporting 8 to 14 hours on skin and even longer on clothing. The sillage is equally impressive at 8 out of 10, projecting over an arm's length for the first 2 to 3 hours before gradually settling to a closer radius. This is a fragrance that makes its presence known.

The Community Says

Fragrantica reviewers describe Cabiria as "an absolute beast and a powerhouse" that is "not for the faint of heart." Parfumo reviewers appreciate that it is "much less sweet" than Kirke and lacks the hairspray note that some find in other Tiziana Terenzi offerings. The DUA Fragrances community notes its strength, with one reviewer commenting that spraying it on fabric means you will still smell it the next day. The price, however, draws consistent criticism, with one reviewer calling the retail price "somewhat cheeky" and "totally inflated."

Who Should Buy This

Cabiria is ideal for Tiziana Terenzi fans who find the house's other offerings too sweet, and for anyone who wants a bold, long-lasting fruity-floral-woody composition. Its unisex character makes it accessible to all genders. Those on a budget should note that discounted prices around 200 euros can be found, making it more palatable than the full retail price suggests.

The Bottom Line

Cabiria is a well-crafted, powerhouse fragrance that channels Fellini's spirit of optimism and exuberance into a wearable scent. Its fruity-green opening, rich floral heart, and warm woody base create a satisfying arc, even if the middle development can feel conventional. For those willing to invest, it offers a distinctive alternative within the Tiziana Terenzi catalog.