Qwensel House, Turku

Nestled in the heart of Turku, Finland, Qwensel House stands as a testament to the city's rich historical tapestry. This elegant wooden structure, dating back to the 1700s, is the oldest bourgeois house in Turku and now operates as the Pharmacy Museum and the Qwensel House.

The Qwensel House offers a unique glimpse into the life of an 18th-century pharmacy and the living quarters of a wealthy Turku family. The museum is an immersive experience, showcasing a meticulously preserved interior complete with authentic furniture and household items from the era. Visitors can explore the history of medicine, pharmacology, and healthcare through an extensive collection of pharmaceutical artifacts, tools, and ingredients that were used by apothecaries of the time.

The building itself is an architectural marvel, reflecting the typical style of upper-class homes during the Swedish rule. The house is named after its original owner, the pharmacist Johan Qwensel, and it has survived the test of time, including the great fire of Turku in 1827. The Pharmacy Museum also includes an herb garden, where visitors can learn about the medicinal plants that were essential to traditional remedies.

Open to the public, Qwensel House invites tourists and history enthusiasts to step back in time and experience the atmosphere of a bygone era. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions and educational programs, further contributing to its status as a cultural hub in Turku.