RAEAPTEEK -THE OLD TOWN PHARMACY-TALLINN, ESTONIA

RAEAPTEEK MUSEUM 

In the medieval town square of Tallinn sits one of the oldest running pharmacies in all of Europe. The Old Town Hall Pharmacy, Raeapteek, has been in operation at the same location for over 600 years. Spanning over a period of 325 years and ten generations, it was run by the Burchart clan (1582-1911). The family maintained a tradition that the eldest son was always named Johann and studied to become a pharmacist.   

ENTRANCE TO PHARMACY

Today it's a popular tourist destination, not just to purchase medical supplies, but to peruse the wonderful small museum in a connecting room. It has examples of medicine and pharmacy goods that have been sold for centuries as well as other antique artifacts, rarities, and curiosities. 

Historically, the pharmacy was the place to go for medical advice, treatments, and spiritual assistance. A price list of pharmacy goods, dated 1695, gives an idea of what was sold in the Raeapteek during the Middle Ages: 54 different types of water, 25 fats, 32 balsams, 62 preserves, 128 different oils, and 71 medicinal teas. Also, on display are burnt bees, stallion hoofs, burnt hedgehogs, and dog feces that have been preserved in jars and used for medicinal purposes in previous times. 

VIEW FROM INSIDE THE OLD TOWN PHARMACY

The pharmacy was also popular as a meeting place where townspeople often stopped by for a popular glass of Claret. 
The medieval drink is made from Rhine wine, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, clove, mace, and saffron, and it can still be purchased at the pharmacy today.
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The Raeapteek is located opposite the Town Hall at #11. Open Monday-Saturday 10:00 to 18:00. Entrance is free.

TINTED LIQUIDS ON DISPLAY IN THE WINDOW

OLD TOWN PHARMACY

TALLINN, ESTONIA