Santa Maria Novella

How many of you have you ever heard of 'Santa Maria Novella'? It's the oldest pharmacy run by Dominican order originated in Florence.
I still remember the time when I went there in Florence.
Italy is my first European country I've ever been to. It was a kinda random choice because my friend and I just chose Italy without any specific reason at that time. Actually we planed to go to Egypt at that time but the country's situation was not quite good so we're not allowed to go there by Japanese government. We were desperate to book another trip instead of Egypt but we kinda run out of time. We had to change our plan just before 3 weeks for our departure day. 
So anyway when we happen to visit Santa Maria Novella, we were really excited! The building was just beautiful and I felt some sort of loftiness because it's effected by Christianity. I was scared to take a photo inside the building somehow haha
Even though I felt I was out of the place, I really wanted to buy some of its products. My friend and I plucked up courage and bought these.

CUORE ORO PICOLLO (right)

SACCHETTO SALVA FRESCHEZZA (left:potpurri)

It's been almost three year since I met Santa Maria Novella. It seems like we can get its product outside of Italy.

I found this shop in London. The other day I discovered that there is a shop in Japan as well!

This is nice but at the same time I felt a bit weird. Personally buying Santa Maria Novella's products in Italy not in the U.K. or Japan gives them more value.....

Anyway many years after my trip to Italy, one day I got a package from my Italian friends. Guess what they gave me!!!

ACQUA DI ROSE 

SAPONE VELLUTINA

I was really surprised and at the same super happy!!!!! Santa Maria Novella always reminds me of my first time in Europe. Moreover, this time it gave me another wonderful memory!!

They are really special to me so I just cannot use them..... ahahaha
Since Santa Maria's products are made from real good herbs, they smell just awesome. 

I'm thinking to buy perfume if I have an opportunity to go to Italy again :) X