The most iconic pharmacies in the world

It's no secret that architecture and design have always been reflections of times and desires. The truth is that visual and tangible evidence of the past is increasingly valued for the sense of place and continuity they convey. On the other hand, as manifestations of good taste, social status or political ideology, architecture and design act in the construction of cultural heritage which, when properly preserved, endures and prospers over time. Therefore, it is not surprising that, over the centuries, many pharmacies have found in architecture and design effective ways of communicating their corporate brand, through buildings that are – today – true icons of the pharmaceutical universe and historical landmarks that contribute to the maintenance of a social memory that lasts over time.

Discover, in this article, some pharmacies that have and continue to mark the daily lives of many communities and that attract the attention of countless visitors and curious people!

Some of the most beautiful and oldest pharmacies in the world

Santa Maria Novella Pharmacy

Located in Piazza Santa Maria Novella, this Italian pharmacy combines history and modernity in an absolutely harmonious way, being a historic landmark in the city of Florence. Reportedly founded in the year 1221, the Santa Maria Novella pharmacy is believed to be the oldest pharmacy in the world, being the place where Dominican monks first began experimenting with alchemy. Currently, award-winning beauty products are produced in this space, attracting thousands of tourists to this historic corner.

Buly 1803, New York

With two centuries of history, the first Buly 1803 pharmacy was founded by the famous Jean-Vincent Bully, in 1803, on Rue Saint-Honoré, in Paris. Currently, with establishments open in cities such as Seoul, Tokyo or Tangier, the typical 19th century decoration continues to be reproduced in the group's new facilities. An example of this is the New York store, opened in 2017, whose interior design remains faithful to its origins.

Pharmacy Ferrer Argelaguet

Farmàcia Ferrer Argelaguet dates back to 1906 and maintains much of the original architecture and design. When strolling through Eixample, in the Spanish city of Barcelona, ​​it is possible to see an architectural style typical of the 20th century.

Master i Boleda

The Mestre i Boleda pharmacy was built in 1902 and to this day it remains as charming and beautiful as it was more than 100 years ago. The front and interior are painted turquoise, and some of the original furniture remains inside. Also worth noting are the lovely stained glass windows, decorated with floral patterns. This pharmacy is truly unique and is based on the famous Gran Via in the city of Barcelona.

Moreno Pharmacy

This independent pharmacy is located in the historic center of Porto, in the north of Portugal. It was founded in 1804, and its interior was entirely renovated. However, the facade remains intact.

Pharmacie G. Lesage

Historical and biographical research on Georges Lesage dates the construction of Pharmacie G. Lesage to the beginning of the 18th century. The architect responsible for the project of this pharmacy located in the city of Douvres-la-Délivrande, in France, was François Rouvray who had the cooperation of artisan Adolphe Marie, to carry out the iron work.

Pharmacy Museum

Opened in 2004, in the building where the old La Reunión pharmacy was located, the Museo de la Farmacia is today considered the most important pharmaceutical complex in Cuba and one of the largest and most beautiful museums in the world.

Old Pharmacy

The so-called Old Pharmacy, at the Franciscan Monastery in Dubrovnik, Croatia, is one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe. It was founded in 1317 by Franciscan friars, who later provided public services to the city's entire population. It is currently a museum.

“The Eagle Pharmacy”

Lastly, the historic Apteka pod Orlem pharmacy, also known as “The Eagle Pharmacy", located in the city of Kracow, Poland. This pharmacy became an important center of social life, when – in 1941 – the Nazi movement created the so-called “Jewish ghetto of Podgórze”. Located in Bohaterów Square, the “Eagle Pharmacy” was the only pharmacy available to the public during the period of Nazi occupation, serving as a true refuge for many Jews.

The story goes that Tadeusz Pankiewicz, owner of the pharmacy, together with the team of pharmacists who served the region risked their lives in multiple clandestine operations to support Jews.

Today, the building is part of the Krakow Museum, where visitors are invited to handle dozens of replica artefacts, highlighting the reality of the events of that time.

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