The famous perfumery (not longer a pharmacy now) of Santa Maria Novella is located in Via della Scala 16 and its considered to be the oldest historical pharmacy in Europe, operating without interruption for almost 4 centuries, and one of the oldest businesses in absolute.

Officina del Profumo Florence

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Already in 1381 is documented as the Dominicans of Santa Maria Novella were selling rose water as a disinfectant , used especially in times of epidemics, the monks cultivated medicinal plants in the adjoining garden know as Giardino dei Semplici, distilling herbs and flowers, prepared essences, elixirs, salves and balms.

The current perfumery dates back to 1612 when it actually ran the primary activity of pharmacy,  in the eighteenth century its products were exported to all Europe and from the Indies to China. Today it is considered one of the oldest businesses in Europe, active for four centuries.

In 2012 was further restored and it’s now more beautiful than ever thanks to the hard of works and investments from the current owners.

Today, beside visiting the rooms, museum,  is a great space for buying Ancient Preparations, Cosmetics, Fragrances, Extracts and Essences, Home fragrances, Wax products Herbals.

Make sure to check out their Officina del profumo website and the officina del profumo facebook fan page.