Sunday, March 31, 2019

Former Delacre Pharmacy - Belgium

In the beginning of this month, Joaninha went on holidays to Belgium with Tânia. They both stayed with Raquel, the official host and guide of every portuguese postcrossers that visit Belgium. I've also stayed with her when I traveled to Belgium and I know they all had a great time together. That also included signing and sending a few cards. 

 It is Paul Saintenoy who, in 1898, realized this magnificent Neo-Gothic, Neo-Renaissance building for the pharmacist Charles Delacre. This former pharmacy has now turned into an art gallery which fully respects its magnificent interior architecture.
You can also admire its woodwork and splendid raised floor. It should be noted that the same architect also built the Old England, located a few meters further up, which now houses the Museum of Musical Instruments.
The story of Charles Delacre, former occupant of the Delacre pharmacy, is quite incredible. Indeed, in 1870 this trained pharmacist began selling chocolate, which, at the time was considered a tonic and cure. The success was such that he decided to open a shop dedicated to chocolate, right next to the pharmacy. Only two years later the first Delacre factory opened. In 1879 the pharmacist officially becomes “Court Supplier” and in 1891 the first biscuit, Pacha Delacre, is put on the market.
120 years later, Delacre is number two on the European biscuits market. - in: https://www.bruxellesmabelle.net/en/lieux/ancienne-pharmacie-delacre/

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