Officiana Profumo Santa Maria Novella Florence: Simply Beautiful

Officiana Profumo Santa Maria Novella in Florence, Italy is the oldest “pharmacy” in the world… but not quite.

Florence has a way of blending old-world elegance with modern life, but there’s one spot where time seems to stand still completely. Tucked just a few blocks from Santa Maria Novella church and piazza, you’ll find Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella, a place that you must visit if you enjoy fragrances and history.

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Officiana Profumo Santa Maria Novella

While often referred to as the oldest pharmacy in the world, this isn’t your typical neighborhood stop for cold medication. Instead, it’s a perfumery and herbalist shop with roots that go back over 800 years. And trust me—if you’re walking by without knowing what’s inside, you’d never guess you’re steps away from one of Florence’s most enchanting experiences. I truly couldn’t believe the experience of just stepping foot in the door.

A Fragrant Journey Back to 1221

The story begins in 1221, when Dominican friars from the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella started growing medicinal herbs to treat members of their convent and the local community. They created salves, balms, and rose water, long before skincare became a billion-dollar industry.

By 1381, the friars were already selling their famed rose water, especially during plague outbreaks. But it wasn’t until 1612 that the apothecary officially opened to the public, thanks to Friar Angiolo Marchissi—a man of science, alchemy, and vision. That’s the year when Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella was officially born.

And word traveled fast. The shop’s fragrances, balms, and beauty products didn’t just stay in Florence—they made their way across Europe, India, and even China. The world was taking notice.

The Queen’s Water: A Royal Romance with Florence

One of the most legendary tales tied to the Officina involves Caterina de’ Medici, the future Queen of France. When she married Henry II in 1533, she wanted to bring a piece of Florence with her to Paris. What better souvenir than a custom fragrance?

Her personal perfumer, Renato Bianco, trained by the friars, created Acqua della Regina (The Queen’s Water), the very first alcohol-based perfume in history. It became an instant hit with the French court and—fun fact—it’s still sold today (with a few modern tweaks) at the shop.

From Monks to Modern-Day

In 1866, the Dominican friars lost control of the Officina when church properties were confiscated and sold. Since then, it has been privately owned, but the spirit and traditions of the original friars continue to live on.

Today, Santa Maria Novella is a working perfumery and herbalist shop, still using centuries-old formulas and artisanal techniques. You won’t find prescriptions here, but you will find beautifully packaged soaps, bath oils, face creams, and of course—unforgettable scents.

Something pretty awesome…

Angeli di Firenze, a modern fragrance created in honor of those who helped save the city’s treasures after the devastating flood of 1966. It’s a heartfelt nod to Florence’s resilience with bright marine and fruity notes that somehow capture hope in a bottle.

What It’s Like to Visit the Officiana Profumo Santa Maria Novella

The moment you step through the beautiful doors, the buzz of Florence fades away. It’s quiet. It’s noticeably cooler in temperature. And the air? It’s incredible… filled with scents of citrus, herbs, and flowers. You’re not just walking into a store–you’re walking into a story–a story and history.

The shop itself is a masterpiece, featuring frescoed, vaulted ceilings, antique apothecary jars, beautiful wooden cabinetry, and gorgeous chandeliers. Everything is warm and welcoming, but packed with a punch of “Wow!” Whether you’re buying or just browsing, you’re free to explore every corner.

Don’t miss the small museum rooms, where you’ll find ancient equipment, original scales, and even ledgers dating back centuries. And yes… everything you see is for sale, from lavender water to almond paste cream to the original Queen’s Water.

Today’s Officina: Still Going Strong

While its heart is in Florence, the Officina now has retail shops in 75 cities around the world, including Rome, Milan, New York, Tokyo, and Seoul. But nothing compares to the flagship store in Florence, Italy. This is where it all started. According to what I’ve read from travelers, the atmosphere is unlike anywhere else. Their products are still crafted using natural ingredients, many of which are grown in the surrounding Tuscan countryside. You’ll find everything from classic colognes and artisanal soaps to herbal teas and pet perfumes… yes, really!

A Scented Side of Florence You Shouldn’t Miss

Florence is known for its art, architecture, and Renaissance history—but its legacy of perfume is just as rich. This city practically invented modern perfumery, and it’s all thanks to innovators like the friars of Santa Maria Novella and figures like Caterina de’ Medici.

In Conclusion

If you’re looking to experience a different side of Florence… one that tickles your senses and gives you a whole new appreciation for the city’s cultural depth- add the Officina Profumo Santa Maria Novella to your list. Even if you don’t wear perfume (like me) it’s well worth the trip.

Trust me, even if you walk out without a purchase, you’ll leave with something even better… a memory of having stepped into a space where history, beautify, and incredible scents come together like nowhere else I’ve experienced.

I didn’t purchase anything during our visit, but my friend and former colleague, Mary, did. She was so happy. When we first arrived and walked in… she was giddy with delight. She casually mentioned that after lunch, she wanted to go, but it was probably closed. Nope! I think it made her visit to Florence complete.

📍 Address: Via della Scala, 16, Florence

⏰ Hours: Open daily (check their official website for the most up-to-date times)

🎟 Admission: Free to enter and browse

Just a note… Products range from around €15 for soaps to €100+ for signature fragrances. However, the bottles are gorgeous, and you’ll never want to throw them away!