Tallinn

Located on Tallinn's Town Hall Square, Raeapteek is one of Europe's oldest continuously operating pharmacy (since at least 1422). Part museum, part active pharmacy, it displays historic remedies (e.g., powdered unicorn horn), medieval tools, and a herbal apothecary. The Town Hall Pharmacy (Raeapteek) stands as one of Europe's oldest continuously operating pharmacies, having conducted business in the same location at 11 Raekoja plats in Tallinn, Estonia since at least 1422. This remarkable establishment operated under the prestigious Burchart family dynasty for over 300 years (1579-1911), spanning ten generations who were not only pharmacists but often doctors, playing significant roles in Tallinn's civic life. The museum, housed adjacent to the still-functioning pharmacy, displays an extraordinary collection of old medical instruments, historical chemist tools, and curiosities including a large stone Coat of Arms of the Burchart family dating from 1635. Medieval remedies once sold here included exotic treatments like mummy juice, burnt hedgehog powder, unicorn horn powder, and snakeskin potions, alongside everyday items such as spices, candles, and the famous marzipan that legend claims was invented here as a cure for heartache. Visitors can experience guided tours with medieval-costumed interpreters, participate in workshops creating herbal teas and salts, and taste the historic claret wine that has been produced since 1467. The building itself features architectural elements spanning centuries, including a carved pillar from 1663 and medieval stonework that creates an authentic atmosphere for understanding pharmaceutical history from the 15th century through modern times.