Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy

Founded at the beginning of the 13th century by Dominican monks, this store is considered to be the oldest European pharmacy.

The monks grew medicinal herbs in the monastery and used them to make balms, ointments, and medicines for their hospital. By 1612, the pharmacy became famous and started selling the products to the public and even abroad.

The Old Apothecary now serves as a herbalist's shop which still uses the traditional recipes. The pharmacy also includes a small museum, which provides information not only about the pharmacy's products but also about the history and techniques of the store.