Raeapteek, Historical pharmacy in Vanalinn, Estonia
Raeapteek occupies a corner location at Raekoja plats 11, directly facing the Town Hall in Tallinn's medieval center. The building houses both an active pharmacy serving the neighborhood and a museum section displaying historical medical practices and pharmacy equipment from past centuries.
The pharmacy was established in the 14th century, making it one of Europe's oldest continuously operating establishments of its kind. It has survived different periods of the city's history while remaining in business and adapting to changing times.
The name Raeapteek means Town Hall Pharmacy, reflecting its position as the community's trusted health provider for centuries.
The location is accessible during regular business hours and situated in an easy-to-reach spot on the central square of the old town. Visitors can enter to browse the current pharmacy section while also viewing historical exhibits without requiring separate tickets or arrangements.
Medieval customers purchased exotic remedies here including powdered horn from mythical creatures and oils extracted from earthworms. These strange ingredients reveal how different medical thinking was centuries ago and what people believed could heal their ailments.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
