Borgo Stretto, 31

In the heart of Borgo Stretto stands one of the oldest surviving examples of Pisa’s pharmaceutical tradition. The history of the premises dates back to 1713, when it housed the Farmacia Mantellassi. During the nineteenth century, the pharmacy passed to the Bottari family, whose name has remained associated with it ever since.

Severely damaged during the Second World War, the pharmacy was subsequently rebuilt. Some particularly interesting elements of its earlier decoration and furnishings have survived, including a depiction of San Ranieri, the patron saint of Pisa, and several white ceramic vessels made by the Sèvres manufactory and dating from the eighteenth century.

The pharmacy is an important testament to the history of pharmacy and scientific culture in Pisa, as well as an integral part of the historic character of Borgo Stretto, one of the city centre’s most distinctive streets.

The pharmacy is also known for its underground passage, built in 1862 to connect the laboratory with the main building.