Sweny's Pharmacy

In the heart of Dublin, just a few steps from Trinity College, there is a hidden gem that has fascinated literature enthusiasts and tourists from all over the world: Sweny’s Pharmacy. This historic pharmacy, located at number 1 Lincoln Place, is not only a landmark for its architecture and period furnishings, but it is also intrinsically linked to one of the greatest masterpieces of modern literature: “Ulysses” by James Joyce. Founded in 1847, Sweny’s Pharmacy is a perfect example of a business that has retained its original charm. Upon entering the shop, one is immediately transported back in time. The dark wooden shelves, the ceramic jars containing ancient remedies, and the persistent smell of lemons and medicinal herbs create an atmosphere that seems to have stopped at the beginning of the 20th century. This pharmacy is a living testament to what a late 19th-century shop must have looked like, with every detail meticulously preserved. Sweny’s connection with James Joyce dates back to 1904, when the Irish writer set a memorable scene from his novel “Ulysses” there. In chapter five, Leopold Bloom, the protagonist of the novel, enters the pharmacy to purchase a lemon soap for his beloved Molly. This simple everyday action becomes a central part of Joyce’s intricate narrative and has helped to immortalize Sweny’s Pharmacy in literary history. The lemon soap has become a symbol for Joyce fans, and today visitors can still purchase one as a souvenir. The pharmacy has long ceased to serve as a medicinal shop. Over the years, Sweny’s has become a true sanctuary for Joyce admirers and literature enthusiasts in general. Managed by a group of volunteers, the pharmacy organizes weekly readings of Joyce’s works in various languages, attracting both locals and tourists. These events create a welcoming and intellectually stimulating environment where people can share their passion for literature and discover new aspects of Joyce’s work. In addition to the readings, Sweny’s offers a wide range of books, both new and second-hand, many of which are dedicated to the life and works of James Joyce. The pharmacy also serves as a cultural center, hosting special events during Bloomsday, June 16th, the day on which the events narrated in “Ulysses” take place. During this annual celebration, Dublin comes alive with reenactments, readings, and guided tours, with Sweny’s becoming one of the focal points of the festivities. A fascinating anecdote about Sweny’s concerns its survival in recent years. In 2009, the pharmacy was at risk of closing permanently due to financial difficulties. However, thanks to the intervention of a group of Joyce enthusiasts and local supporters, Sweny’s was saved and transformed into a non-profit organization. This intervention has allowed the preservation of not only a piece of literary history but also a unique example of Dublin’s cultural heritage.