Apoteket Lejonet Building - a building with a large elephant on top of it
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Apoteket Lejonet Building

4.5
·150 reviews·, Sweden

Step into living history at Apoteket Lejonet, a beautifully preserved vintage pharmacy with stunning interiors and a golden lion emblem.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more photo ops

CrowdLow
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Apoteket Lejonet Building - a building with a large elephant on top of it

Apoteket Lejonet Building

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more photo ops

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into living history at Apoteket Lejonet, a beautifully preserved vintage pharmacy with stunning interiors and a golden lion emblem.

4.5
(150 reviews)

"A must-visit to see the vintage setting and items; a glimpse of how pharmacies were many years ago."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Snap Photos Respectfully

Quick photos are usually okay, but be mindful of customers and staff. :camerawithflash:

🦁 Look for Lion Details

Keep an eye out for the lion symbols on the ceiling and throughout the interior. :lion:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Golden Lion

The Golden Lion

Exterior above the door

A majestic golden lion guards the entrance, a symbol of this historic pharmacy.

Vintage Pharmacy Interior

Vintage Pharmacy Interior

Inside the pharmacy

Step into a bygone era with original shelves, ornate ceilings, and a unique atmosphere.

Lion Motifs

Lion Motifs

Ceiling and interior details

Discover subtle and grand lion symbols adorning the ceiling and other architectural elements.

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Planning Your Visit

Step Back in Time

Experience a piece of living history at Apoteket Lejonet. This isn't just a pharmacy; it's a beautifully preserved vintage building offering a glimpse into the past. Admire the historic shelves and unique architectural details.

Respectful Exploration

While the interior is stunning, remember it's a working pharmacy. Be mindful of customers and staff. Quick photos are usually fine, but avoid lingering or disrupting operations.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more photo ops
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Experience it as locals do
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

😢 What should be done with this leaning tower of Manhattan? It’s likely cheaper to keep One Seaport (actually 161 Maiden Lane) abandoned than it is to demolish it. Here’s the full story as of 2025. #nyclife #architecture
@urbanistariel
67.3K likes • 1.3M views

📸 Snap Photos Respectfully

Quick photos are usually okay, but be mindful of customers and staff. :camerawithflash:

🦁 Look for Lion Details

Keep an eye out for the lion symbols on the ceiling and throughout the interior. :lion:

(Jag hade tipast er att kolla in ”Aknekollen.se” så får ni en utskriven kräm av en läkare specifik åt er hy. Och om ni är under 21 år så kommer ni få krämen helt gratis som ni senare hämtar upp på apoteket) Sen får ni inte glömma att ni ser otroligt fina ut oavsett med eller utan akne🩷🩷 #foryoupagе #foruyou #akne #content #viral
@hemligaspamis
24.2K likes • 255.2K views
Apoteket Lejonet ("The Lion Pharmacy") is the oldest and a very famous pharmacy in Sweden. It was founded in 1571, and in 1896, pharmacist John Tesch built a new building for the pharmacy in the German Renaissance style. The pharmacy is located on Malmö's main square, Stortorget. Apoteket Lejonet (аптека "Лев") старейшая и очень известная аптека в Швеции. Основана в 1571 году , а в 1896 году фарм...
diana_kazakova4
8 likes • 228 views

🕰️ Embrace the History

It's a working pharmacy, so enjoy the vintage vibe and imagine its past. :antique_clock:

🤝 Friendly Staff

The staff are noted for being friendly and helpful if you have questions. :handshake:

Inside Apoteket Lejonet. The building dates from the late 19th century and is Sweden’s oldest chemist/pharmacy. Worth a stop for a look round, or if you’ve forgotten your toothbrush. #apoteketlejonet #apoteket #sweden #malmö #skåne #sverige #wanderlust #adventure #explore #traveltheworld #worldtraveler #solotravel #onebagtravel #solofemaletravel #womenwhotravel #travel #briggsandriley #travelgra...
ilostmybaginnewportpagnell
5 likes • 107 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Snap Photos Respectfully

Quick photos are usually okay, but be mindful of customers and staff. :camerawithflash:

🦁 Look for Lion Details

Keep an eye out for the lion symbols on the ceiling and throughout the interior. :lion:

🕰️ Embrace the History

It's a working pharmacy, so enjoy the vintage vibe and imagine its past. :antique_clock:

🤝 Friendly Staff

The staff are noted for being friendly and helpful if you have questions. :handshake:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(150 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Apoteket Lejonet for its stunning, well-preserved vintage interior and the unique historical atmosphere. Many highlight the beautiful architecture, ornate ceilings, and the iconic golden lion. While some note the selection might not be vast, the experience of stepping back in time and the friendly staff make it a worthwhile visit.

"This pharmacy is based in a vintage building with modern services, products, and medicinal items. The visit to this venue is worth the trip to see the vintage setting and items"

Toni Thompson

"This Lion Pharmacy is one of the oldest, if not the oldest, pharmacy in Europe. Not only is the building magnificent, it has a golden lion on top of the door, it has the pharmacy symbol and lions on the ceiling in the building. All the old pharmacy shelves are also very nice as well. If you have time, this is a must visit."

C Neon

"Beautiful building. Friendly and helpful staff. Not a huge selection, of stuff, but the interior is lovely."

Sharon Kerr

What People Like

Beautiful vintage interior
Historic architecture
Golden lion exterior

What People Dislike

Limited product selection

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Apoteket Lejonet is centrally located in Lund, Sweden. It's easily accessible by foot if you're exploring the city center. Public transport options like buses stop nearby, and it's a short walk from Lund Central Station.

Parking in the immediate vicinity can be challenging as it's in a historic city center. There are several public parking garages within a short walking distance, such as the one at Lund Central Station.

Yes, while Swedish is the primary language, the staff are generally friendly and helpful, and many will be able to assist you in English, especially for common pharmacy needs.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Apoteket Lejonet is a functioning pharmacy and is free to enter. You can walk in to browse the historic interior or to purchase items. :ticket:

Opening hours can vary, but it generally operates during standard retail hours. It's best to check their official website or a local directory for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

There is no admission fee. Apoteket Lejonet is a working pharmacy, and visitors are welcome to step inside and admire the historic architecture.

Yes, taking photos is generally permitted, but it's important to be discreet and respectful of other customers and the staff. Avoid flash photography if it might disturb others. :camerawithflash:

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Apoteket Lejonet is renowned for its stunning, well-preserved vintage interior, making it a unique historical landmark in Lund. It's one of the oldest pharmacies in Europe. :star:

Inside, you'll find original pharmacy shelves, ornate ceilings often featuring lion motifs, and a general atmosphere that transports you back in time. It's a beautiful example of historic pharmacy design. :gem:

It's both! Apoteket Lejonet is a fully operational pharmacy serving the local community, while also being a significant historical site that attracts visitors interested in its architecture and heritage.

Most visitors spend about 15-30 minutes inside, taking in the atmosphere and snapping a few photos. If you plan to make a purchase, allow a bit more time.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, Apoteket Lejonet is located in Lund's city center, which is packed with cafes, restaurants, and eateries offering various cuisines. You'll find plenty of options within a short walk. :forkandknife:

As a pharmacy, its primary focus is on medicinal products and health-related items. While they might have some basic health supplements, it's not a place to buy snacks or beverages.

📸 📸 Photography

The entire interior is photogenic! Focus on the vintage shelves, the detailed ceiling, and any visible lion motifs. The exterior with the golden lion is also a great shot. :iphone:

Tripods are generally discouraged in busy retail spaces to avoid obstructing pathways and customers. It's best to rely on handheld shots or a monopod if absolutely necessary and if space permits.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Apoteket Lejonet offers a unique, brief educational experience for families. Kids can be fascinated by the golden lion outside and the animal motifs inside, especially on the ceiling. It’s a quick way to introduce them to historical buildings and how things were done in the past, making it more engaging than a typical museum visit.

Keep the visit short and focused on the visual elements. Explain that it's a place where people get medicine, just like today, but it looks very different. The friendly staff might even offer a smile, making it a welcoming stop. Remember to be mindful of other shoppers and keep noise levels down.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Apoteket Lejonet is a dream for capturing vintage interior shots. The original wooden shelves, the detailed ceiling art, and the lion symbolism provide ample opportunities for creative compositions. The golden lion on the exterior is also a striking subject.

Be prepared for potentially low light conditions inside, so a camera with good low-light performance or a fast lens is beneficial. While tripods are generally not allowed, a steady hand or a monopod can help achieve sharp images. Respecting the pharmacy's function is key; aim for quick, discreet shots that don't disturb customers.

🏛️ History Buffs

Apoteket Lejonet is a gem for anyone interested in living history. As one of Europe's oldest pharmacies, it offers an authentic glimpse into the past. The 1897 establishment date and the preservation of its original interior make it a significant historical site.

Take your time to absorb the atmosphere. Imagine the generations of pharmacists and customers who have passed through these doors. The building's architecture and the continued operation of the pharmacy as intended provide a unique context for understanding historical retail and healthcare practices.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into Pharmacy History

Apoteket Lejonet, meaning 'The Lion Pharmacy,' is a remarkable testament to Lund's rich history. Established in 1897, this pharmacy has operated continuously, preserving much of its original grandeur. The building itself is a significant architectural piece, designed to reflect the era's style and the importance of its function. Visitors often remark on the feeling of stepping back in time upon entering.

The interior is a treasure trove of vintage pharmacy elements. Original wooden shelves, meticulously maintained, line the walls, showcasing a bygone era of medicinal display. The ceiling often features intricate designs, with prominent lion motifs that echo the pharmacy's name and historical symbolism. These details, combined with the overall ambiance, make it a unique experience that goes beyond a typical retail visit. It's a place where history is not just displayed, but actively lived.

While it remains a fully functional pharmacy, Apoteket Lejonet has become a point of interest for tourists and locals alike. Its status as a 'working museum' allows visitors to appreciate its historical significance while still fulfilling its primary role. The friendly staff are often happy to share tidbits of its history, adding a personal touch to the experience. It’s a reminder that some of the most fascinating historical sites are those that continue to serve their original purpose.

Architectural Charm and Symbolism

The Apoteket Lejonet Building is celebrated for its distinctive architectural style, a blend of historical aesthetics and functional design. The exterior is often noted for its classic facade, but the true marvel lies within. The presence of a golden lion atop the entrance is an iconic feature, serving as a powerful visual identifier and a symbol of strength and heritage.

Inside, the ornate ceilings are a particular highlight, frequently adorned with intricate patterns and, most notably, lion motifs. These recurring symbols are not merely decorative; they are deeply tied to the pharmacy's identity and history, possibly referencing ancient symbols of healing or protection. The original pharmacy shelves are another key element, crafted from rich wood and designed with a specific purpose for displaying various medicinal products of the time. Their preservation offers a tangible connection to the past.

Reviewers consistently praise the vintage setting and the beautiful building. The combination of these elements creates an atmosphere that is both charming and historically significant. It’s this attention to detail and the successful preservation of its original character that makes Apoteket Lejonet a must-visit for those interested in history, architecture, or simply experiencing a unique piece of Lund's cultural landscape.

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