It's been a familiar feature on Tallinn's Town Hall Square for centuries. Since 1422 The Raeapteek has been serving generations of Baltic Germans, Estonians and visitors to Tallinn who were in search of a remedy for their ailment or wanted to enjoy a glass of its famous claret. The Raeapteek is unique not only because it's the oldest pharmacy in Europe, but because it's been continuously running from the same location since the day it first opened.
The exact date on which the pharmacy opened is not precisely known. Historic records reveal that in 1422 the Raeapteek was already on to its third owner. Some historians therefore suggest that the correct year of establishment was around 1415.
A small museum dedicated to the history of the Raeapteek is located on the first floor of the building. On display is a range of old medical instruments, historical pharmacy equipment and other curiosities.
The Burchart family played a major role in the history of the Raeapteek. They ran the pharmacy for ten generations, from around 1582 to 1911. Aarne Ruben wrote an insightful book about its history.
The Raeapteek was famous for its claret.
It is interesting to note, that during old times when there were no doctors in Tallinn, the pharmacist would often step up and prescribe medicines for the sick. Protests from the clergy soon put an end to that. In 1495 it was recorded that Bishop Johannes Orges III wrote to the Tallinn Town Council to lodge a complaint stating 'an apothecary is a doctor's cook' and should not take it upon himself to be anything more.
I have always had a soft spot for the Raeapteek. My great-great-grandfather completed his pharmacy apprenticeship there in 1865. Each time I walk up the stairs of the Raeapteek, I often smile to myself, knowing I'm walking up the same flight of stairs my great-great-grandfather used to.
In years past, in order to become an apprentice at the Raeapteek, the applicant had to submit an 'Echtheitsbrief'. A letter of authentication pertaining to his honest birth, stating that he was born within wedlock, not outside it. The Echtheitsbrief had to list two referees who could vouch for his good breeding and character. I'm glad my great-great grandfather was deemed worthy!
More information about the Raeapteek can be found on its website www.raeapteek.ee