In the heart of Piazza del Mercato Nuovo in Florence, known for its famous “Porcellino” statue, lies the historic Farmacia del Cinghiale, one of the city’s oldest pharmacies 1752. A marble plaque behind the central counter tells us that Dr. Antonio Nicola Branchi della Torre conducted significant chemical experiments here, which led to his appointment as a professor of chemistry at the University of Pisa by order of Grand Duke Francesco Stefano of Lorraine.
Over time, the Farmacia del Cinghiale became a gathering place for writers and intellectuals. Its notable patrons included figures such as Aleardo Aleardi, Edmondo de Amicis, and Renato Fucini, who found inspiration in its refined atmosphere. The pharmacy takes its name from Pietro Tacca’s “Wounded Boar” sculpture, which once stood outside but was removed in the late 19th century to make way for a tram line.
In addition to a range of creams, herbal products, and homeopathic remedies, the Farmacia del Cinghiale offers an intriguing relic: an unusual scale. Instead of the classic platform scale, this one consists of a comfortable armchair in the style of a small 19th-century throne, allowing customers to weigh themselves while seated, combining convenience with a timeless elegance.
