The Oldest Pharmacy In Rome Served Popes And The People

The oldest pharmacy in Rome was known as the pharmacy of the Popes and has served the city for more than 400 years and here is why you should check it out.

The oldest pharmacy in Rome, known as the Spezieria di Santa Maria della Scala, was founded in the 16th century to serve the friars of the nearby convent. It later opened to the public at the end of the 17th century and today is a jewel of the Trastevere neighborhood of Rome.

The pharmacy was managed by the order of the Discalced Carmelites, who grew, prepared and sold their medicines here until 1954, the year the pharmacy was closed. Because of its proximity to St. Peter’s Basilica, the pharmacy became so important that it was frequented by cardinals, princes and even popes, so much so that it was  called the “pharmacy of the popes”.

What Can You See In The Pharmacy?

Upon entering the ancient pharmacy, you encounter a world made of mortars and stills, vases, glazed pottery known as: majolica and ancient instruments for weighing the various medicines. The hall still retains the 18th-century wooden showcases and furniture, while the ceiling is completely frescoed with the coat of arms of the Carmelites in the center. 

Some famous visits are remembered on the cabinet doors such as that of Vittorio Emanuele I, which took place on 27 October 1802. Among the many “medicaments” preserved here there is also theriac, a medicine believed to be a panacea and used since ancient Roman times as an antidote against poisons.

What Is The Oldest Apothecary In Italy?

Although the name is similar, the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella in Florence, Italy is the oldest Pharmacy in Italy. It has been crafting beautiful fragrances, remedies and herbal products since 1221.

What Is The Oldest Pharmacy In Europe?

The answer to this question depends on what “requirements” you put on the definition. The oldest Pharmacy in Europe is claimed by the Town Hall Pharmacy in Tallinn, Estonia, which dates back to at least 1422 and is the oldest continuously run pharmacy in the world still operating in the original premises. However, Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella in Florence claims to have been operating since 1221. The title is desired by many, but even Wikipedia refuses to give a definitive answer.

Where Can I Find The Oldest Pharmacy In Rome?

The Antica Spezieria di Santa Maria della Scala can be found at Piazza della Scala, 23, which is in the heart of the Trastevere neighborhood. You can get there by the #3 Tram and walking from the Trastevere/Min. P.Istruzione. You can also take the #87 Bus and walk from the Rinascimento stop.

When Is The Oldest Pharmacy In Rome Open?

The pharmacy is open from Monday to Saturday from 8:30 to 20:30. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays. If you are interested in taking a tour, you will need to reserve a spot by emailing them or calling them and selecting a time available. The cost of the tour is €5 and it lasts around 45 minutes.

• Email: anticafarmaciadellascala@gmail.com
• Phone: +39 06 5806233

Who Are The Discalced Carmelites?

The Discalced Carmelites (Carmelitani Scalzi) are friars and nuns who dedicate themselves to a life of prayer. The nuns live in cloistered monasteries and follow a completely closed and contemplative life. The Carmelite friars, however, engage in the promotion of their faith through their retreat centers, parishes and churches, in addition to following a contemplative life.

The nuns of this order are called the Discalced Carmelite nuns, but the word “discalced” is often translated “barefoot”. However, in the original Latin, discalceatus means “without shoes” and includes the wearing of sandals.

There are also lay people of the Carmelites, known as the Secular Order, who are also contemplative as part of their everyday lives.

More Information About Healthcare In Rome