The Milan of the Apothecaries: Alchemists, Ancient Pharmacies and Magic

Lombardy, Milan



From the Brera Botanical Garden, commissioned by Maria Theresa of Austria, to the ancient pharmacies and the secrets of the Jesuits, all the way to the Sforza Castle: a journey through medicinal plants, remedies, spices, and alchemy.

Highlights

  • Over 10 years of experience organizing guided visits in Italy.
  • A family-friendly tour: you'll learn while having fun!
  • All our guided visits are conducted by licensed tour guides.

Description

In the heart of Brera lies an unexpected place that we will visit together: the Botanical Gardens, commissioned by Maria Theresa of Austria as a laboratory of nature, science and knowledge. Among medicinal plants, ancient remedies, and forgotten curiosities, we will discover a world where medicine, beauty, and mystery intertwine. The line between science and alchemy here is thinner than you might think. We will then follow in the footsteps of the Jesuits, exploring their deep interest in spices, herbs and preparations that once had an almost magical aura. Continuing along Via Fiori Oscuri, we will come to the old pharmacy associated with Carlo Erba, where the tradition of herbalism is transformed into a modern industry. Finally, we will reach Sforza Castle, where fascinating stories emerge about Caterina Sforza, a powerful and restless figure who was passionate about alchemy and the secret arts. A surprising itinerary, where Milan is revealed in a new light: between nature, science, and magic. Places visited: Botanical Garden (inside), courtyard of the Accademia di Brera building, Via Fiori Oscuri, Castello Sforzesco Meeting point: Main entrance of Accademia di Brera, Via Brera, 28, 20121 Milano MI, Italy Duration of the tour: 90 minutes All our guided visits are conducted by licensed tour guides Please arrive 10 minutes before the start of the tour. The tours start with the utmost punctuality.

Includes

Guided visit with a licensed tour guide. Admission to the Brera Botanical Garden

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

Trusted local guides, read by millions every month

  • 2006 online since
  • 26.2M page views a month across the network
  • 14 languages

180+ destination guides, one network

Every guide covers a single destination on its own website, with events, restaurants, things to do and places to stay chosen from local recommendations.

My Guide Network Locations

Nearby Destinations

Add to your trip

Add your travel dates so we can place this on the right day, or save it for later.