il "giardino dei semplici"


The Giardino dei Semplici (medical herbs garden)

The archival documents proving the existence of an internal pharmacy Ospedale Maggiore since 1470. The preparation of the drugs was based primarily on the use of herbs and plants, at least in part, were grown directly in the “Giardino dei Semplici” (garden to grow medical herbs). The hospital maintains 150 majolica vases of the XVII-XVIII and other furnishings.
The project is original and provides for the union survey with archival and historical study botanical and chemical - pharmaceutical, to understand which species were used in the past, how and for what purpose, and how the acquisition and operation of the hospital pharmacy, worked. The comparison of historical data with current knowledge seeks to understand the effectiveness of the regulations or to discover the active ingredients. The object of scientific research is therefore the study of historical, botanical, pharmaceutical, medical and agronomic, thanks to the involvement of experts and publications, and educational activities.

Apothecary jar

The project therefore provides the "restoration" of the garden, through the restoration of the cultivation of medicinal species in the same area and an extension and teaching of science aimed at the wider public. The purpose is to know the characteristics of plants and their specific properties (including toxicology), and reach out to the strong current interest in the field of herbal and plant protection.
The final look will be appreciated for its aesthetic appeal.


Interior view of the pharmacy, with majolica vases from the XVIII century, 1935