Located in via Saverio Latteri in San Fratello, in the province of Messina, the pharmacy dates back to the early 1900s, it was purchased in 1950 by Doctor Antonino Lo Balbo who scrupulously safeguarded the furnishings and refined pictorial decorations.
Particular attention should be given to the ceiling, a part of it is divided into four segments with a floral rose window in the centre. A delicious putto appears in each segment, accompanied by an animal closely connected to the pharmaceutical art. The first is a dog, an image of fidelity and related to San Rocco, the patron saint of plague victims. The second is a rooster, which with its crowing awakens and gives life after the torpor of sleep. The third is a snake, traditionally associated with Aesculapius and an image of the drug. The fourth is a turtle, from whose meat therapeutic products were obtained and it is also a symbol of calm and longevity. Each segment is framed by elegant floral decorations that stand out against an intense blue background, creating a chromatic effect.
Also on the ceiling is a singular fresco. Here is represented the "birth" of chemistry (which dates back to the Paleolithic with the discovery of fire) and its evolution: from the simple combustion of minerals and vegetables tar is obtained and through chemical reactions it was possible to discover and synthesize drugs such as Aspirin in 1853 (analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic) and phenacetin in 1887 (analgesic and antipyretic).
