Of ancient origin, the Antica Spezieria di San Giovanni is documented as early as 1201. Situated in the Borgo Pipa number 1, it represents a unique example of sixteenth and seventeenth century pharmacy. Founded and run by the Benedictines, it remained in operation until 1766; then it was secularized and purchased by the State. Open to the public since 1959 after a major restoration campaign, it preserves the look thanks to the five-century frescoes and original wooden furniture. The environments are enriched by accessories and original vessels of local manufacture. The apothecary is made by three rooms of which the first room, the Sala del Fuoco, is characterized by a counter with precision scales; Sala dei Mortai is decorated with frescoes depicting the masters of ancient medicine, while the third room, known as the Sala delle Sirene is dedicated to the Parma's masters of medicine and pharmacology.