FOUNDED in 1221 by Dominican friars growing medicinal herbs in the convent gardens of Florence, Santa Maria Novella is recognised as the world’s oldest continuously operating apothecary.
More than 800 years later, this historic institution is celebrating its enduring connection to the natural world with a new window installation at its Via della Scala HQ.
Santa Maria Novella Installation at Via della Scala HQ
Designed by Maurizio Azzimonti, the display incorporates wisteria, iris, cherry blossom and wild grasses with fine antique furnishings, classical statuary, apothecary glassware, brass scales and botanical illustrations, creating a richly ‘oh so’ Florentine homage to the house’s centuries-old heritage.
Santa Maria Novella Installation at Via della Scala HQ
Santa Maria Novella Installation at Via della Scala HQ
Products from the Firenze 1221 and I Giardini Medicei collections, alongside Acqua di Rose, are nestled among the plants that inspire them, doubling down on the connection between the brand’s heritage and its contemporary fragrance and beauty offerings. The installation is on view at Via della Scala 16 in Florence until autumn 2026.
by Felicity Carter