The Merchant of Venice’s Spezieria all’Ercole d’Oro is a perfume shop on Strada Nova, set in a 17th-century apothecary beside a working pharmacy. Restored walnut cabinets, gilded scales and ceramic jars give the salon the look of an old pharmacy. Browse fragrances inspired by Teatro La Fenice and historic spice routes, including scents sold in Murano glass bottles, or ask staff to explain the ideas behind them. The shop also carries herbal teas, mustard seeds and blueberry essence.
A perfume salon in a former apothecary
Spezieria all’Ercole d’Oro dates to the 17th century. The historic premises are now divided between a regular pharmacy and an adjoining perfume salon. The salon has been restored with its original wood panelling, walnut cabinets, gilded scales, lustrous lamps and delicate ceramic jars.
The setting connects the shop’s perfumes with Venice’s history of pharmacy and trade. Alongside its fragrances, the salon sells natural wellness products, including herbal teas, mustard seeds and blueberry essence.
Fragrances and Murano glass
The Merchant of Venice scents draw inspiration from Teatro La Fenice and ancient spice routes. Some are sold in Murano glass bottles, bringing local glassmaking into the presentation of the perfumes.
Staff can explain the ideas behind individual fragrances and their history. If you are choosing a scent, asking for a recommendation can help you narrow the selection. Check ahead if you have a particular product or bottle size in mind, as availability can vary.
Häufige Fragen
Where is The Merchant of Venice’s Spezieria all’Ercole d’Oro?
It is on Strada Nova at 2233/A in Venice, beside a regular pharmacy.
What can you buy there?
The shop sells perfumes, including fragrances in Murano glass bottles, as well as herbal teas, mustard seeds and blueberry essence.
What is the shop’s setting?
The perfume salon occupies part of a 17th-century apothecary, restored with walnut cabinets, gilded scales and ceramic jars.
