Parma's Ancient Pharmacy Reopens After Restoration
After undergoing restoration, the Antica Spezieria di San Giovanni in Parma has reopened in its original location within the Complesso monumentale della Pilotta. Established in 981 for Benedictine monks, it became accessible to the public in 1201, providing services to city hospitals. Over the centuries, it grew, adding a laboratory in the 1400s and modifying its layout in 1766. Following its closure in 1897, the Italian state acquired it, and it reopened more than fifty years later. The recent restoration included seismic upgrades and enhanced accessibility. The 400-square-meter exhibition features tactile elements and olfactory corners, with various themed rooms. Director Stefano L'Occaso expressed gratitude to Fondazione Cariparma and Associazione Parma, io ci sto!, emphasizing the significance of monastic life and the evolution of pharmacy.
Key facts
- The Antica Spezieria di San Giovanni in Parma reopened after a long restoration.
- The pharmacy was founded in 981 for Benedictine monks and opened to the public in 1201.
- It closed in 1897 and was later acquired by the Italian state.
- The restoration included seismic adaptations and accessibility improvements.
- The exhibition space is 400 square meters with tactile and olfactory elements.
- New rooms added: Sala della Storia, Sala della Regola, Sala dei Veleni, Corridoio del Monaco.
- Sponsors include Fondazione Cariparma and Associazione Parma, io ci sto!.
- The pharmacy is part of the Complesso monumentale della Pilotta since June.
Entities
Artists
- Stefano L'Occaso
- Giorgio Cozzolino
- Maria Luisa Pacelli
- Giulia Giaume
Institutions
- Antica Spezieria di San Giovanni
- Complesso monumentale della Pilotta
- Abbazia di San Giovanni
- Fondazione Cariparma
- Associazione Parma, io ci sto!
- Direzione Regionale Musei
Locations
- Parma
- Italy