A wonderful sensual experience can be had by simply walking into the ancient Oficina Profumo Farmacia di Santa Maria Novella, est.1612, attached to the church Santa Maria Novella (near the train and bus stations). It is accessible on the road behind the church, at Via Della Scala, #16.
One of the oldest pharmacies in the world, it was established by the Dominican fathers shortly after 1221, the year of their arrival in Florence. In the garden, the fathers began to cultivate the herbs that they need to preparemedications, balms and creams for the monastery's
little infirmary.
In 1612 the Grand Duke, Fernando I di Medici,
gave the Dominicans permission to open this little store
- the pharmacy was opened to the public. A century later their herbal secrets had become internationally renowned. Even if you don't purchase one of the exotic products, go for the fabulous smells and the cool, calm atmosphere, They sell soaps, perfumes – all natural, herbal remedies, etc – don’t be intimidated – go in! (web site www.smnovella.it )

Florence, Italy

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