Antica Spezieria di San Giovanni
Museum | Parma | Emilia-Romagna | Italy
The "Antica Spezieria di San Giovanni" in Parma is a historic pharmacy that now serves as a museum, providing a fascinating insight into the history of pharmacy and medical practices of past centuries.
History and Architecture
The origins of the Spezieria date back to the year 980 AD when the Benedictine monastery of San Giovanni Evangelista was founded. The first documented references to a pharmacy within the monastery date back to 1201. Over the centuries, the Spezieria was renovated and expanded several times, with the current establishment mainly dating from the late 16th and early 17th centuries.
Collections and Exhibitions
The museum houses an impressive collection of over 2000 objects, including:
Pharmacy furniture and equipment: Original furniture and equipment from the 17th and 18th centuries that preserve the historical charm of the pharmacy.
Pharmaceutical utensils: A variety of mortars, pestles, albarellos, and other containers that were once used for the preparation and storage of medicines.
Medical books and manuscripts: Rare and valuable texts that provide insights into the medical knowledge and practices of the time.
Decorative elements: Artful wall paintings, stucco work, and wood carvings that enhance the atmosphere of the historic pharmacy.
Significance for the Region
The "Antica Spezieria di San Giovanni" plays a central role in preserving and presenting Parma's cultural heritage. It serves as an educational and cultural center that promotes understanding of the history of pharmacy and medical sciences, fostering a dialogue between past and present.
With its unique collection and authentic atmosphere, the Spezieria offers visitors the opportunity to delve into the history of medical practices and trace the development of pharmacy throughout the centuries.
