Santa Maria Novella
When I was in Florence not so long ago, I had some places that I wanted to pay a visit to. All of them were stores/brands that caught my attention in some way, like 800 years old apothecary. What I didn’t expect was amazed I was after my visit. Entering into the chapel of San Niccoló on the other side of Basilica Santa Maria Novella, walking through the corridor where flowers are hanging from the ceiling was one of the most stunning “Welcome” I ever had in some store. But it wouldn’t be fair to call S.M.Novella an ordinary store – it is arguably the oldest apothecary in the world, dating its origins to 1221. And after my visit, I can say it is one of the most exciting apothecaries I’ve ever had the pleasure with.
Before my visit, I studied some information on their website to imagine better what I want to try and why. But I was overwhelmed when a very kind store assistant (or should I say apothecary assistant?) showed me another three “rooms” of this chapel (which looks more like a palace though) where each category have its place.
So, for example, candles, diffusers, and supplements like Ginkgo Biloba or all kinds of vitamins are just on the shelves next to chocolates or tea leaves.
I believe we can find well around 30 fragrances over there, some of them worn by well-known persons in the past. Like their “Acqua della Regina” - which we can translate as “Queen’s water” - by Caterina de Medici.
I found several exciting fragrances and mostly citrus variations. My winner was “Tobacco Toscano”. However, this one wouldn’t be really possible to wear through the summer, and I will gladly order this fragrance just before winter. Nevertheless, I developed my requirements that I want to leave with the scent that I can use right away.
A different but equally kind store assistant guided me through variations that would be suitable for summer. I choose “Melograno”, which consists of sweet floral oriental notes crowned with a pomegranate tree.
I wouldn’t say they are much sweet, though. Simply light and stunning. I have already worn it a few times, and I am delighted with its longevity and interaction with my skin.
Other cosmetics I’ve bought must undergo a test. Anti-dandruff shampoo, my problem for a long time, a soap bar with Sulphur for face and cream deodorant, which I’m curious how it’s going to work compared to my favourite by Corpus.
However, if I should tell you how I review a brand presentation online and in-store on a scale of 1 to 10, I’d say 11. It’s not often, you encounter a brand in the chapel.
Santa Maria Novella is an example of an extraordinary place that doesn’t have to be expensive. 50 ml bottle of fragrance is around 75 EUR, and I’d say that’s a fair price. Similarly, the rest of the basket was also average, certainly less than Byredo or niche brands, while the quality is the same at worst.
Reputation, arguably even better. However, this might be a very individual decision if that is true or not, I suppose.
Yours Sincerely,
Denis
