Born in 1221, the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is considered the oldest pharmacy in the world. Founded by Dominican friars, its history began when they had access to Santa Maria Inter Vineas, a small church outside Florence. There they cultivated herbs and plants in its garden to make medicines, ointments and balms. In 1334, Santa Maria Novella became known for treating a wealthy merchant from one of the most powerful families in Florence. Today the house is known worldwide for its perfumes, candles and "traditional preparations".