Explore 800 Exciting Years of Perfume Heritage
By Yaxin Li
Have you ever wondered how recipes and techniques that have stood the test of time for centuries yet continue to shine with brilliance? During the golden age of the Renaissance, the creativity of artists, scientists, and philosophers lit up Europe like a constellation of stars. Today, Santa Maria Novella, the Florentine apothecary founded in 1221, carries forward this spirit of culture and artistry through its 800 years of heritage. With the opening of its new boutique in Burlington Gardens, London now has the chance to engage in a profound dialogue with the Renaissance era. Read more at Explore 800 Exciting Years of Perfume Heritage.
Image on the left- hand side Michelangelo Buonarroti, The Virgin and Child, c. 1504–05. Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, Kupferstichkabinett / Jörg P. Anders, PDM 1.0 DEED. Exhibition organised by the Royal Academy of Arts, London, in partnership with the Royal Collection Trust and the National Gallery, London
Santa Maria Novella’s history is deeply rooted in the era of the artistic genius Leonardo da Vinci and closely intertwined with the Renaissance’s fusion of science and art.
In 1504, Leonardo spent a profoundly meaningful period at the Santa Maria Novella convent. There, he not only delved into the study of botany but also explored the possibilities of perfume-making techniques.
Inspired by the friars, he designed an advanced perfume distillation tool, the “alembic,” which became a cornerstone of modern perfume craftsmanship, setting standards for precision and artistry in fragrance creation.
This union of science and art transformed fragrance into a symbol of Renaissance spirit—blending elegance with creativity and harmonizing science with aesthetics.
This spirit became deeply embedded in Santa Maria Novella’s brand DNA. Under Leonardo’s influence, the friars created many unique formulas, the most renowned of which is “Acqua della Regina”, crafted for Catherine de’ Medici.
Infused with the elegance of Florence through its fresh citrus notes and delicate floral undertones, quickly gained favour at the French court.
This perfume not only established fragrance as a hallmark of high society but also marked the beginning of perfume craftsmanship transitioning from monasteries to European royal courts and nobility.
Today, “Acqua della Regina” remains one of Santa Maria Novella’s most beloved classic products, allowing people to trace the splendor of that era through its captivating scent.
Located at 4 Burlington Gardens, the Santa Maria Novella boutique has become a captivating landmark on the streets of London. Stepping inside feels like travelling back to the Renaissance era—where elegance and artistry permeate the air, leaving visitors enchanted.
This is more than just a retail space; it is akin to a miniature museum, with every detail telling the story of Florence’s illustrious past. The boutique’s design seamlessly preserves Santa Maria Novella’s classic aesthetics while incorporating touches of modern luxury.
Whether you are a passerby drawn in by curiosity or a fragrance enthusiast visiting with intent, this space promises to offer you a sensory journey unlike any other, immersing you in the enchanting fusion of history and fragrance.
Michelangelo Buonarroti, The Virgin and Child with the Infant St John the Baptist (The ‘Taddei Tondo’), c. 1504-05. Royal Academy of Arts, London. Photo: Royal Academy of Arts, London / Prudence Cuming Associates Limited. Exhibition organised by the Royal Academy of Arts, London, in partnership with the Royal Collection Trust and the National Gallery, London
What’s more, the boutique’s location—right next to the Royal Academy of Arts—immerses visitors in an atmosphere rich with artistic inspiration.
The exhibition, “Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael: Florence, c. 1504”, proudly sponsored by Santa Maria Novella, showcases unfinished works by these artistic giants, offering a profound glimpse into the Renaissance masters’ relentless pursuit of perfection.
Stepping out of the exhibition and into the Santa Maria Novella boutique feels like reconnecting with that history, evoking images of the friars who once blended science and art to craft the timeless formulas that continue to captivate admirers to this day.
“With our support of this exhibition, we want to acknowledge our roots and continue the Renaissance tradition since the Medicis of supporting the arts, bringing a poetic of beauty from the centuries of Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella’s history.” –
Giovanna Paoloni, CEO of Santa Maria Novella
Santa Maria Novella has always stayed true to its core, honouring the gift of time with the highest standards of craftsmanship and artistry.
If you long for an intimate dialogue with history and art, don’t hesitate to visit and immerse yourself in the soul of Florence. Experience how this boutique beautifully weaves together 800 years of legendary stories with modern living.
Perhaps, the next fragrance to accompany your life is quietly waiting here to be discovered—or even a gift that bridges the past and the future.
Find out more at UK.smnovella
New boutique in 4 Burlington Gardens, W1S 3ER London
Exhibition “Michelangelo, Leonardo, Raphael: Florence, c. 1504” at the Royal Academy of Arts, London (9 November 2024 – 16 February 2025)
If you enjoy reading Explore 800 Exciting Years of Perfume Heritage, why not try The Invisible Art; Scent Brings Pre-Raphaelite Art to Life.
Cent magazine London, Be Inspired; Get Involved.
