In the heart of the historic centre of Florence, a magical place combines history, science and art: the oldest working pharmacy in the world, Santa Maria Novella. This iconic site - ideal for making ointments and various remedies with flowers and spices - is not only a must-see destination for culture lovers, but also a paradise for those looking to immerse themselves in centuries of tradition and well-being.
Although the official date of the pharmacy's opening is 1612, its history begins hundreds of years before. Around the 13th century, the Dominican friars who settled in the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella began to cultivate and make herbal formulas and it became a world reference for botany and chemistry.
The potions and formulas used by the friars became increasingly famous, and their medicinal garden enjoyed an excellent reputation. In those days, people from the villages sought help in monasteries and chapels to care for the sick, and the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella had its own “pharmacopoeia.”
Visiting Santa Maria Novella is much more than just entering a pharmacy; it is a sensorial journey. The aroma of natural essences, such as the famous “Santa Maria Novella Eau de Cologne,” which according to history was created for Catherine de Medici to use at her wedding, transports you to a time when the art of perfumery was a true science.
Known as “Acqua della Regina,” it is a fresh and elegant eau de cologne with citrus and floral notes, perfect for those looking for a light but sophisticated scent. Thanks to its history and unique formula, this perfume has become a symbol of excellence and a legacy of the pharmacy
In addition, the place has a wide range of products, from creams, lip balms and soaps made with traditional recipes to teas, candles, natural remedies and deodorants for dogs. According to the information they provide, all the products are made with natural herbs and fats, and are not tested on animals. Every corner is designed to captivate your senses and give you a little piece of the Florentine essence.
The Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy is located at Via della Scala, 16, very close to Piazza di Santa Maria Novella, and opens every day. It also has expanded and has stores all over the world, whose products continue to revolve around plants, being more of a kind of herbalist's shop. For example, they have a drinks and food section with herbal teas, liqueurs, chocolate, and cookies. And even an area where you can sit and drink one of their elaborate teas. The star of the drinks is the “Elixir of China,” a herbal liqueur known for its digestive properties.
A tip? Before your visit, make sure to book an appointment for a guided tour or workshop, where you can discover how monks combined science and nature to create unique products that have endured over the centuries.
And even if you don't intend to buy anything, it's worth the tour, as the building itself is a marvel. It has different palatial rooms that take you back centuries. So don't let this gem go unnoticed on your next trip to Florence and live an experience that mixes history, beauty and well-being.
