The Ancient Apothecary of Trastevere: A Journey Through Time

Discover One of Rome’s Oldest Pharmacies Tucked Away in the Heart of Trastevere

A few years ago, while wandering through the lively streets of Trastevere, I stumbled upon something truly unique: the Ancient Pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala. It’s a place that isn’t well-known among most visitors to Rome, but it’s a hidden gem worth discovering if you have the chance.

The Ancient Pharmacy, also known as the "Spezieria di Santa Maria della Scala," dates back to the 16th century and is one of the oldest pharmacies in Rome. It was originally established by the Discalced Carmelites who ran the nearby convent.

For centuries, this pharmacy provided remedies and medicines not only to the monks but also to the public, including many of Rome’s noble families. It was even known as the “Pharmacy of the Popes,” as several pontiffs were treated with its herbal concoctions.

Stepping inside the pharmacy feels like entering a time capsule. The shelves are lined with ancient jars and containers, once filled with medicinal herbs and potions. You can see the original wooden cabinets, scales, and glass vials used to measure and prepare remedies. There are also fascinating collections of ancient medical instruments and books filled with recipes for remedies based on centuries-old knowledge of plants and herbs.

One of the most intriguing parts of the visit is seeing the room where monks used to prepare their famous medicinal compounds. The atmosphere of the pharmacy feels preserved in time, offering a rare glimpse into how medicine was practiced centuries ago.

Unfortunately, I don’t have any other personal photos to share with you from my visit, as photography isn’t allowed inside the pharmacy. The restriction is understandable, as the delicate environment needs to be preserved, and there’s something special about being fully immersed in the experience without a camera in hand.

Another reason for the limited access is that visits to the pharmacy must be booked in advance, making the experience feel even more exclusive.

If you’re interested in visiting the Ancient Pharmacy of Santa Maria della Scala, you’ll need to book a guided tour in advance, as it’s not open to the general public on a daily basis. You can visit this site for some info or try to send an email here: anticafarmaciadellascala@gmail.com.

Or try to search online for one of the associations that organize reservations and guided tours: it's worth it.

To get there, head to Trastevere: you’ll find the pharmacy located at Piazza della Scala, 23, right next to the church of Santa Maria della Scala.

I highly recommend adding this hidden treasure to your itinerary if you’re looking for something truly unique and off the beaten path in Rome.