Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

Officina Profumo Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella was established in 1221 by the Dominican Monks.
The Friars cultivated in their garden the medicinal herbs which were used to prepare medicines, balms and ointments for the small infirmary in their convent.

In 1612, Fra Angiolo Marchissi opened the pharmacy to the public. Later in 1630 the Officina received, from Ferdinando II de’ Medici, the honor of being able to boast of the title of His Royal Highness Foundry .
It is the famous brand, of unique niche perfumery and cosmetics, based on natural ingredienrs, that owns old recipes combined with advanced technology and scientific research.

Today it is the place where you can buy the first perfume created by the monks in 1533 for Caterina de’ Medici, who, marrying Henry II of Valois became Queen of France and introduced this fresh essence to the French court.
Santa Maria Novella is a place where it is respected the ancient traditions conjugated with the needs of our time.