Milan's Apothecaries: A Guided Tour Through Alchemy, Ancient Pharmacies and Magic
Hidden in the heart of Brera is an unexpected place you'll visit together: the Orto Botanico (Botanical Garden), founded by Maria Theresa of Austria as a laboratory of nature, science and knowledge.

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Among medicinal plants, ancient remedies and forgotten curiosities, you'll discover a world where medicine, beauty and mystery intertwine. Here the boundary between science and alchemy is thinner than you might think.
You'll then follow in the footsteps of the Jesuits, exploring their deep interest in spices, herbs and preparations that once carried an almost magical aura.
Continuing along Via Fiori Oscuri, you'll come across the historic pharmacy linked to Carlo Erba, where the herbal tradition turned into modern industry.
Finally, you'll reach Castello Sforzesco, where fascinating stories surface about Caterina Sforza — a powerful and restless figure with a passion for alchemy and the secret arts.
It's a surprising itinerary in which Milan reveals itself in a whole new light: between nature, science and magic.
Practical information
Stops: the Botanical Garden (interior), the courtyard of the Accademia di Brera palace, Via Fiori Oscuri, and Castello Sforzesco.
Meeting point: main entrance of the Accademia di Brera, Via Brera 28, 20121 Milan. The tour lasts about 90 minutes and costs €15.
Date: 29 August 2026 at 3:00 pm. All guided tours are led by licensed tourist guides; participants should arrive 10 minutes before the start, as tours begin punctually. For details and bookings, visit italia-intour.com.

