This famous apothecary in Florence is one of my favorite hidden gems in the city. Their official name is Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, you’ll also find it referred to as Officina Profumo or Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy. Santa Maria Novella’s roots date back to 1221; today the flagship store is an incredible place to experience Florentine history while shopping for perfume and more.
Read on for everything you need to know to plan your visit!
Roots in the 13th Century
Founded in 1221 by Dominican friars, this famous apothecary in Florence is often called the “oldest pharmacy in the world.” The origins of Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy trace back to the friars’ extensive knowledge of botanicals and apothecary practices. They grew medicinal herbs and created herbal remedies, ointments, and elixirs that soon gained popularity among the locals. This garnered the attention of patrons and nobility, leading to the pharmacy’s establishment as a commercial enterprise in the 17th century.
The pharmacy still operates within the setting of the original 13th-century monastery, with its frescoed walls and elegant architecture. Visitors can explore the beautiful museum showcasing antique apothecary tools, rare manuscripts, and an impressive collection of perfumes and cosmetics.
Centuries-old Recipes
The pharmacy continues to produce luxury products, from fragrances to herbal remedies, inspired by centuries-old recipes. Santa Maria Novella’s rosewater, lavender water, and potpourri are among their most popular products. Today, in addition to the flagship store in Florence, Santa Maria Novella has boutiques throughout Florence, Italy and the world.
How to get to Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy
The original/flagship Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy is located at Via della Scala, 16, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy. If you’re exploring Florence’s city center, you’re within easy walking distance. It’s only a 10-minute walk from Florence Cathedral, Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore. Similarly, the store is an 8-minute walk from Firenze Santa Maria Novella, Florence’s central train station.
Make Sure You’re Heading to the Original Location
Something that can be confusing for a first-time visitor is that there are several Santa Maria Novella boutiques in Florence. If you’re using your phone for navigation, and want to make sure to visit the flagship store, type in or select the Via della Scala location: Via della Scala, 16, 50123 Firenze FI, Italy. Here is a Google map showing the location.
Plan Your Visit to this Famous Apothecary in Florence
The store is open seven days a week from 9:30 a.m. until 8 or 8:30 p.m., depending on the day. Of course, it’s always a good idea to check their website for updates and closings.
Because the store is a landmark, it attracts both tourists looking to visit the “oldest pharmacy in the world” as well as serious shoppers. I found the staff members to be friendly and helpful to all. Testers and samples are available, as are gift-wrapping services.
Stepping Back into History
The store is a museum in addition to a shop, and the building itself is absolutely gorgeous. It’s filled with historic details, many representing Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy’s heritage. For example, on one wall you’ll see an ornate Medici coat of arms. This symbol represents Catherine de’ Medici, who at age 14 requested a signature scent from a Florentine perfumer, to bring to French court upon marrying King Henry II of France. Called ‘Acqua della Regina’ or ‘Water of the Queen,” a scent that serves as an homage to this legacy is still available for purchase today.
Another unique item on display is a medicinal recipe book, detailing medieval botanical recipes used by the Dominican friars. Nearby are 16th and 17th century jars and tools used in Santa Maria Novella’s early days.
Old World Products at this Famous Apothecary in Florence
Looking for fan favorites to check out during your visit? A few of their most popular products include:
1. Acqua di Rose (Rose Water): Santa Maria Novella’s Rose Water is a cult classic.
2. Potpourri: A blend of dried herbs, flowers, and spices.
3. Melograno (Pomegranate) Soap: This bar combines almond oil, shea butter and the scent of pomegranate.
4. Eau de Cologne: This ancient recipe, dating back to 1614, marries citrus, herbs, and spices.
5. Creme Per Le Mani (Hand Cream): Enriched with almond oil and shea butter, it’s a lifesaver for dry hands.
Flying with your Santa Maria Novella Products
If you’re flying home after visiting, most products at Santa Maria Novella are smaller than the European carry-on limit of 100 ml. If you’re carrying on, keep in mind all liquids must fit in a transparent plastic bag with a maximum capacity of 1 liter, with each individual bottle not exceeding 100 ml. Of course, if you’re checking a bag, you can disregard these restrictions.
In Conclusion & More Resources
If you’re heading to Florence and planning to visit, I hope you enjoy this famous apothecary in Florence as much as I did.
Looking for other places to visit in Tuscany? Check out my guide to Montepulciano, my hotel tour of a boutique hotel in Tuscany’s Val d’Orica region, and my guide Castelmuzio, a hidden gem in Tuscany.
