Vatican Pharmacy opens a parapharmacy in St. Peter's Square
At the service of Jubilee visitors and pilgrims
An over-the-counter pharmacy, under the direction of the Vatican Pharmacy, will be available in Saint Peter’s Square in view of the expected increase in the number of visitors and pilgrims for the Jubilee. The new facility will sell healthcare products that do not require prescriptions, such as supplements and personal hygiene products. Brother Binish Thomas Mulackal of the Order of Fatebenefratelli, Director of the Vatican Pharmacy, talks about the new facility in the following interview.
What is the aim of this new facility?
The main reason for opening an over-the-counter pharmacy in Saint Peter’s Square is to provide a service that is easily accessible to the many pilgrims and tourists who visit the Vatican, especially in light of the Jubilee. Our mission is to provide basic essential products and solutions for daily wellness, with an array of products, including special products produced by the Vatican Pharmacy. We do so inspired by the charism of Saint John of God, based on care and hospitality.
How much did the Jubilee affect the decision for this opening?
The Jubilee had a significant role in the decision to open the pharmacy. We are expecting an increase in the number of visitors, and this initiative is a way to respond to their needs in a quicker way. The opening of the pharmacy is a way to support and serve those who will come to Rome to experience this event of faith.
How is it organized? How many people will work there and who is it addressed to?
The facility was conceived to welcome the constant flow of visitors, with highly qualified staff, in order to guarantee an efficient and welcoming service. The team will include pharmacists and cosmetic specialists, ready to respond to customers’ questions and offer them customized advice. It is aimed at pilgrims, tourists and residents, as a point of reference in an area visited by a large number of people.
What kind of products will you sell?
We will offer a wide array of healthcare products that do not require prescriptions, including personal hygiene products and supplements. Moreover, throughout the Jubilee Year, we will sell products that are exclusive to the Vatican Pharmacy brand, and available in limited edition, including personal hygiene products, cosmetics and other products for specific health needs.
Will it be open to the public only for the duration of the Jubilee, or will it be a permanent shop?
The intention is to maintain it as a permanent service, even after the conclusion of the Jubilee. Its strategic location makes it capable of responding to a steady need, because of the constant flow of visitors in Saint Peter’s Square. Our goal is to make it a stable point of reference, in line with the Vatican’s tradition of hospitality and assistance.
How much will it be influenced by the charism of Saint John of God?
The charism of Saint John of God permeates every aspect of our service. With our attention to customers and our hospitality, we hope to incarnate his spirit of hospitality, so that every visitor may feel welcomed with respect and attention. This over-the-counter pharmacy is not only a shop, but the extension of our Order’s mission, which aims to serve and support whoever is in need.
Nicola Gori
