Few cities in the world can boast a 13th-century pharmacy. In Florence, it has not only been well preserved, but is also still operating to this day.
Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy is located in the city center, not far from the square where the basilica of the same name stands. Together with the Dominican monastery, they form a single architectural complex.
In 1221, the Dominican monks opened a pharmacy where they sold healing remedies made from herbs from the monastery garden. At first, these were simple preparations that helped with various ailments, but then the assortment gradually expanded. It came to include balms, lipsticks, soap, rose water, and other products that were more cosmetic than medicinal.
Thanks to the use of natural ingredients and unique recipes, the products of Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy soon became popular far beyond Florence, including in Russia.
The pharmacy's interiors deserve special mention. There are only three halls inside, but how magnificently they are decorated! There is splendid stucco work, antique paintings, statuettes, garlands, gilded angel figures, and carved wooden patterns. It feels as though you have entered a palace museum, nothing less!
