In 1221, in Firenze, Florentine Dominican monks began an infirmary that has now evolved into a world famous perfumery and beauty brand. The monks based in Santa Maria Novella, grew herbs to make medicines, and by the mid-16th Century, they were selling perfumes and lotions to the public. They also created a perfume for Caterina de Medici, the Queen of France who had been born in Florence. The brand Santa Maria Novella has spread in popularity and remains one of the oldest and most well established perfumeries in the world. The packaging design is so classic and elegant, I wish I had known of the brand when I visited Florence, I would have visited the store.
