The Habanera Pharmacy Museum

Havana’s museums cover just about everything — from timeless classics to the wonderfully unexpected. History, national figures, education, rum, tobacco, coins, chocolate — everything has its place in the Cuban capital. Pharmaceutical science is no exception, proudly represented in this elegant, subtly colourful building. The La Reunión pharmacy first opened its doors in 1886, founded by brothers José and Valentín Sarrá, who came from Barcelona hoping to make their mark in business. That they did — the pharmacy quickly became one of the most prestigious in the country, eventually supplying medicine to nearly every other pharmacy on the island. Its success led to two major expansions, in 1917 and 1924 — which saw the demolition of 18 surrounding properties to make room! After Fidel Castro came to power in the late 1950s and the Sarrá family moved abroad, the pharmacy was nationalised. It continued to operate under state control until the end of the 20th century. Though its original chapter came to a close, a new one soon began. Restored and reimagined by Havana’s Historian Office, the former pharmacy is now a museum, dedicated to the history of pharmaceutical science in Cuba. Visitors first step into the beautifully preserved, original shop. The next room houses an impressive collection of books, glassware, and antique medical tools. In the final space, you’ll find traditional remedies and natural products for sale, along with spices and medicinal plants. A place to heal the body and nourish the mind, the Habanera Pharmacy Museum is a rich and rewarding stop on your journey through Havana.