In Florence stands one of the world’s oldest pharmacies: Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

                                                                                                                                    Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella was established in 1221 by Dominican monks who cultivated medicinal herbs in their gardens and used them to prepare balms, ointments and pomades for their convent’s infirmary. In 1612 Fra Angiolo Marchissi opened the pharmacy to the public and shortly after the Granduke of Tuscany bestowed upon it the title of His Royal Highness’ Foundry (Fonderia di Sua Altezza Reale). In the 18th century fame of the products and formulas developed by the apothecary fathers reached as far as Russia, the Indies and China. In 1866, after state confiscation of church assets, management of the enterprise passed for the first time to a layman, Cesare Augusto Stefani, nephew of the last monastic director. Today the highest quality raw materials are still used and the founding fathers’ artisanal methods are still followed.















Products I love:

( you cant leaving florence without)                                                                                                                                                   Pasta di Mandorle   -   50mL Article number 7011302 An emollient and nourishing almond scented cream. Rich in vegetable fats, it is particularly recommended for very dry skin. To use: apply in the evening and rub in thoroughly until completely absorbed. For an intensive, restoring treatment apply a generous amount and live it on wearing cotton gloves.    Sapone latte Verbena1 soap Article number 7011508 Box 3 soaps Article number 7011527 A traditional base of vegetable oils enriched with whole milk which moisturizes and softens. Available unscentedand scented: Gardenia, Garofano, Gelsomino, Iris, Rosa, Verbena, Violetta.                 Olio di mandorle dolci100mL Article number 85711 Known for its delicacy and used in cosmetics for centuries, sweet almond oil is made from  pressed sweet almonds. It is rich in proteins, minerals and vitamins that leave the skin silky and hydrated. Recommended for all skin types. Vapori balsamici100mL Codice prodotto 85404 A mixture of balsamic oils for a refreshing and tonic bath and as an air freshener and air purifier for rooms.