Pharmarium is a unique bar that pays homage to the long-standing tradition of pharmacy and alchemy. The establishment is housed in a building that dates back to the 17th century, and its interior design combines traditional pharmacy elements with modern Scandinavian aesthetics.
The very first Swedish pharmacy was Hovapoteket (the Court Pharmacy) in the Royal Palace in the 1400s. The first pharmacist, a Master Lukas, was employed by Gustav Vasa. His successor was named Anthonius Busenius, a Dutch pharmacist who first served at Gustav Vasa's court and later at the courts of Erik XIV and Johan III. On March 21, 1575, Busenius was allowed to move a part of the royal palace's medicine storage and start selling medicines to the public here in Stortorget in Gamla Stan.
The pharmacy was a mirror of the time's view of illness and healing: a mix of medicine, science, folklore, religion, magic and quackery. They had a monopoly on the trade in medicines and poisons, but could also sell dubious ingredients such as ivory, mummy powder, peacock feathers, unicorn horns, powdered precious stones or sun and moon essence...
In the early 20th century, the building underwent significant renovations and was transformed into a hotel. Over the years, it changed hands several times, serving various purposes until it was eventually acquired by the current owners, who decided to revive its rich history by turning it into a bar that celebrates the art of alchemy and the science of mixology.
Today, Pharmarium is a popular destination for locals and tourists. The interior design is a mix of old and new, with original pharmacy cabinets and antique apothecary jars juxtaposed against contemporary lighting fixtures and sleek bar counters. The atmosphere is cosy and intimate, with dim lighting and plush seating that invites visitors to sit back and relax. The extensive drink menu features an array of cocktails and spirits that pay tribute to the building's pharmaceutical roots. Expect the unexpected!
