Godiva

The History of Godiva Chocolatier

Godiva Chocolatier was founded 80 years ago in Brussels, Belgium when master chocolatier Joseph Draps founded a chocolate company that was named in honor of the legend of Lady Godiva.



It's not surprising that Godiva Chocolatier, one of the creators of the world's most elegant, hand-crafted chocolates, originated in Brussels, Belgium. For generations, Belgium has had a tradition of perfectionism, from its Rubens paintings and gothic architecture to products made of intricate lace, glittering crystal and its fabulous cuisine.



In keeping with this tradition, Joseph Draps introduced Godiva chocolate to Belgium in 1926. Draps opened the doors to his shop on a cobblestone street on Grande Place, selling his unique formula of rich chocolate with unparalleled smoothness. With a remarkable eye for detail, he set forth the standard at Godiva for innovative selection of elegant, European shell-molded designs and beautiful packaging.





Through the years, these standards have been maintained as assiduously as Draps' recipes have been guarded. As a result of this adherence to Draps heritage, Godiva chocolates evoke the greatest in confectionery excellence. The same careful attention to quality is apparent in the exquisite European-style gold ballotins and handcrafted seasonal packaging that have earned Godiva a reputation for design excellence.

Synonymous with style and prestige the world over, Godiva chocolates make the right statement, whatever the occasion. Every year, Godiva's Maitre Chocolatiers who are always reaching for new dimensions in delivering exquisite chocolate, present new limited edition collections for the pleasure of connoisseurs.



More than 80 different chocolate creations form a delicious palette which can be varied: pralines, ganaches and caramels, fresh creams, marzipans, fondant creams, fruit pastes, truffles, carres and chocolate bars.



The undeniable success of Godiva chocolates is mainly linked to its natural and perfectly fresh ingredients. Chocolates which are decorated by hand are Godiva's most attractive signature.