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"The new fragrance, Oranger Alhambra, which described as an olfactory hymn to the gardens of the Andalusian fort, has been launched without authorisation to use the trademarked name.

Since 2001 commercial use of the word Alhambra has been restricted to protect the reputation of the UNESCO World Heritage site.

The Patrono de la Alhambra y el Generalife, trustees of the monument, have approached the fashion house for an explanation and could seek legal action if no "mutually beneficial" arrangement is forthcoming.

Maria del Mar Villafranca, director of the board of the trustees, said the matter was being investigated.

"Armani have not sought permission," she said. "The use of a trademark associated with a public monument and world heritage site should not be used for private gain."

But she admitted there was no reason to change the name of the scent if an agreement could be reached.

She praised the designer for using the monument as an inspiration for the perfume. "Like many other designers and artists he has drawn on the Alhambra for inspiration and has created something tasteful," she said.

"However the correct procedures must be followed," said Miss Villafranca, adding that the board was "always open to discussions whether formal or informal" over use of the monument's name.

The Italian fashion label has until Sept 1 to respond to the complaint or the matter will go to the courts, she said.

According to the official website of Giorgio Armani, he created the fragrance, part of the Armani Prive collection, "as a hymn to his childhood memories of freshness and the sunlight of the Mediterranean".

"The art of Persian gardens has lived on in Andalusia; within the walls of the Alhambra there exists a garden that is a piece of paradise on earth. The architecture of the gardens of Alhambra is engraved into eternity," it says.

Nobody from Armani was available to comment. "