Pharmacy Museum, Lisbon

Museum in Lisbon, Portugal

Pharmacy Museum in Lisbon

The Pharmacy Museum (Portuguese: Museu da Farmácia ) is a museum located in Lisbon, Portugal, dedicated to the history of pharmacy and the pharmaceutical sciences. It offers a comprehensive overview of the evolution of pharmacy from ancient times to the modern era, showcasing a wide array of artifacts, documents, and exhibits that highlight the role of pharmacy in society.

History

The Pharmacy Museum was established in 1996 by the National Association of Pharmacies (ANF) in Portugal. The museum was created to preserve and promote the rich history of pharmacy and its contributions to health and medicine. It is housed in a historic building in the heart of Lisbon, providing a fitting backdrop for its extensive collection.

Exhibits

The museum's collection includes a diverse range of items that illustrate the development of pharmacy over the centuries. Visitors can explore ancient pharmaceutical tools, traditional herbal medicines, and early apothecary jars. The exhibits are organized chronologically, allowing visitors to trace the evolution of pharmacy from ancient civilizations to contemporary practices.

Ancient Pharmacy

The ancient pharmacy section features artifacts from Egypt, Greece, and Rome, including replicas of ancient pharmacopoeia and alchemical instruments. This section highlights the early understanding of medicinal plants and the beginnings of pharmaceutical compounding.

Medieval and Renaissance Pharmacy

During the medieval period, pharmacy began to emerge as a distinct profession. The museum showcases manuscripts and texts from this era, illustrating the growing body of pharmaceutical knowledge. The Renaissance brought further advancements, with the introduction of new drugs and the establishment of pharmacy as a regulated profession.

Modern Pharmacy

The modern section of the museum covers the industrialization of pharmacy and the development of synthetic drugs. It includes displays on the role of pharmacists in public health and the impact of technological advancements on the field.

Exhibit at the Pharmacy Museum

Educational Programs

The Pharmacy Museum offers a variety of educational programs and workshops aimed at students, professionals, and the general public. These programs are designed to enhance understanding of pharmaceutical sciences and the historical context of pharmacy.

Location and Accessibility

The museum is located in the Chiado district of Lisbon, a vibrant area known for its cultural and historical significance. It is easily accessible by public transportation and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals interested in the history of medicine.

Related Pages

• Pharmacy
• History of pharmacy
• National Association of Pharmacies
• Lisbon