As part of your Florence itinerary, you should consider a visit to the oldest Pharmacy in the world an absolute must!

The Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella has been creating divine fragrances, remedies and herbal products since 1221 and there’s an air of magic and alchemy around its original store located in the quaint backstreets near the basilica of Santa Maria Novella.

The pharmacy holds many ties with the church as the Dominican monks who founded the basilica would produce medicinal herbal elixirs, balms and tinctures. Sourced from their monastic garden, these were used to treat and heal the monks within the monastery. During the 14th century news spread across the city of the healing qualities of the remedies originating from the gardens at Santa Maria Novella and soon there was a demand for these holy concoctions. Their perfumed waters were used to heal all kinds of medical illnesses and were even deployed to treat the plague at the height of the Black Death in 1381.

In 1533 Caterina de’ Medici was betrothed to Henry II, the future King of France and she requested that the Dominican friars create an essence that captured her love for Florence. The elixir was named ‘Acqua della Regina’ meaning ‘The Queen’s Water’ and it was hugely successful amongst the royal families in France making history as one of the first alcohol-based perfumes in the world. You can in fact still buy the scent today, which is now called ‘Acqua di Santa Maria Novella’.

By the 16th century the pharmacy was producing many highly regarded products and their widespread fame led to the creation of the store in 1612.

When visiting this historical shop, it feels like you are stepping back in time as each ornate room is magnificently decorated with charming wood panelling, dazzling chandeliers, wonderful frescoes and magical product displays.

One of the most iconic rooms which showcases the original shop is the Chapel of San Niccolò. This was a gift by the wealthy Florentine merchant Dardano Acciaioli for being healed by the Dominican friars. Other rooms include the Green Room, the Ancient Apothecary and the Sacristy featuring stunning frescoed ceilings.

When compared to the Dominican monks creating their medieval medicines, the techniques used today have been hugely modified, but the tradition and dedication to using natural ingredients remains their upmost priority. Since the 1990’s the pharmacy has expanded and now has stores across Italy and the rest of the world.