|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
The art of druggists and apothecaries throughout the centuries has always
involved the study of spices and herbs, their properties, uses and benefits to
mankind. It is one of the oldest Florentine arts, dating back to the 1300's. Its secrets have been jealously guarded by all who come to know them, particularly in convents and monasteries. In the 16th century, Florentine herbal practices found their way to France, where they provided a cornerstone for the French perfume industry.  The ancient tradition is still alive in Firenze, still embracing ancient techniques and keeping alive a number of ancient herbalists' shops. The most famous of these is the Farmacia di Santa Maria Novella (Via della Scala 16r), located in a building built in the 1300's. The antique enterprise produces herbal-based liqueurs following recipes handed down by Dominican priests. Near the Piazza Signoria is the l'Erboristeria di Palazzo Vecchio (Via Vacchereccia 9r), a tiny little shop, nicely frescoed. Very special perfumes, even customized scents, are the speciality of the famous Lorenzo Villoresi Laboratories (in Via de' Bardi 14): it's possible to make an appointment and have a personalized essence made just for you! The herbs of the Speziali since 1545 are cultivated in the Orto Botanico, also known as the Giardino dei Semplici, that presently comprises over 7000 plants (Via P.A. Micheli 3, near San Marco). It's a splendid sight in spring when the azaleas are in full bloom. The sweet breath of flowers wafts over the Giardino di Boboli (Piazza Pitti 1), one of the largest and most famous gardens in all Italy, built in 1550. Its walkways are lined with fountains, statues, panoramic viewpoints. An atmosphere charged with romance drapes the 19th-century English garden of the Villa Stibbert (Via Stibbert 26), which surrounds the museum (which maintains a rather significant collection of weapons and armour from every period).  More prosaic the odors and aromas rising from the vegetables, greens and salamis at the two-story Mercato Centrale (Via Nazionale to Via dell'Ariento), which supplies the many vendors from the nearby Mercato di San Lorenzo (famous for hand-tooled leather purses, belts, shoes and other hand-crafted items). |
 |
 |
