Santa Maria Novella (Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella) is often overlooked by tourists. This perfumery/pharmacy is located in an unassuming building at number 16 Via Della Scala.
The history of the pharmacy dates back to the 13th century. In 1221, Dominican friars began to mix and sell their essences, tonics and elixirs from their monastery. Shortly thereafter, the friars gained recognition as world class perfumers.