The Sant’Anna Pharmacy is one of the most magical places in Genoa-a true journey into the past.
The pharmacy is located inside the convent of Sant’Anna, founded in 1584 by Nicolò Doria, the first built by the Discalced Carmelites outside the borders of Spain. Part of the complex are the church, a typical example of Genoese baroque, with a beautiful 16th-century portal, cloisters, refectories, gardens, and the ancient library, which contains precious volumes: herbals and botanical essays, theological and biblical texts, many in original editions. But the real jewel is the Old Pharmacy whose origin can be traced back to the mid-17th century when the existence of a certain Fra Martino di Sant’Antonio with the title of pharmacist is attested. The pharmacy, which was opened to the public in the 19th century, maintains its galenic and phytotherapeutic tradition and preserves the charming original structure in a bright and welcoming environment: white and gray marble floor, pavilion vaulted ceilings, late 18th-century walnut display cases along all the walls with a mobile counter in the center.
An enchanting place, located a short walk from downtown, in the residential neighborhood of Castelletto, and I can assure you that as you enter, you will be amazed.
