Throughout history, certain businesses have not only survived but thrived, becoming almost as iconic as the products they sell. These establishments serve as living museums, offering insights into the commercial, social, and cultural tapestry of their eras.
This article ventures into the stories of the world’s oldest stores, revealing how they have endured through changing times while maintaining their original charm. Each store listed here provides a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the resilience and timelessness of human enterprise.
Oldest Stores Around the World
1. Sean’s Bar – Athlone, Ireland (900 AD)
Established around 900 AD, Sean’s Bar proudly holds the title of the oldest pub in Ireland and quite possibly, the world. Nestled in the town of Athlone, this pub has been serving patrons for over 1,100 years. Archaeological evidence, including ancient coins found within the walls, supports its age claims.
Originally known as “Luain’s Inn,” this establishment provided a resting place for travelers crossing the river Shannon. Today, visitors can enjoy a rich tapestry of live traditional music, a warm hearth, and original 10th-century architecture, along with a perfectly poured pint of Guinness.
The pub’s walls, filled with historic memorabilia, share tales of the countless visitors who passed through its doors over the centuries.
2. St. Peter Stiftskulinarium – Salzburg, Austria (803 AD)
Dating back to 803 AD, St. Peter Stiftskulinarium in Salzburg claims the title of the oldest restaurant in Europe. Situated within the walls of St. Peter’s Abbey, this remarkable eatery has served everyone from common peasants to kings and popes throughout its history.
The restaurant was documented by the scholar Alcuin, a follower of Charlemagne, which attests to its long-standing operation. Its menu reflects a blend of traditional Austrian dishes with modern influences, mirroring the convergence of historical and contemporary Europe.
The ambiance is steeped in medieval charm, featuring arched ceilings, antique furnishings, and serene views of the abbey’s courtyards. Dining at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium is like taking a step back in time, encapsulating a millennium of European culinary history.
3. The Ma Yu Ching’s Bucket Chicken House – Kaifeng, China (1153 AD)
The Ma Yu Ching’s Bucket Chicken House, originally established in 1153 AD in Kaifeng, China, is reputed as the oldest restaurant in Asia. It started as a simple stall selling a unique recipe of bucket-cooked chicken, which became a culinary legend over the centuries. The restaurant has continued to operate through numerous dynasties and social upheavals, adapting its techniques and recipes to the changing tastes and times.
The name “bucket chicken” originates from the method of cooking chicken in large wooden buckets, a technique that has been refined and preserved through generations. Today, the establishment not only offers a taste of its famed bucket chicken but also a variety of traditional Chinese dishes. Its longevity is a testament to the timeless appeal of its food and the deep cultural roots it represents.
4. Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella – Florence, Italy (1221 AD)
Founded in 1221 AD by Dominican friars in Florence, the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella is one of the oldest pharmacies in the world. Originally, the friars began cultivating medicinal herbs in their monastic gardens to prepare medications, balms, and ointments for the monastic community. Over time, their reputation for effective remedies grew, attracting the attention of both the public and nobility across Europe.
The pharmacy still sells some of its original products, such as “Acqua della Regina” – the water of the Queen – originally created for Catherine de’ Medici. The ancient shop is beautifully preserved, featuring ornate ceilings, frescoed walls, and antique furniture that transport visitors back to Renaissance Florence. This venerable establishment not only continues to sell traditional remedies but also offers perfumes and toiletry products made using ancient recipes.
5. R. Durtnell and Sons – Kent, England (1591 AD)
R. Durtnell and Sons in Kent, England, holds the distinction of being the oldest building company in the world, established in 1591. This family-operated firm has been building and restoring homes and institutions for over 400 years, passing on traditional construction techniques from generation to generation. The company’s portfolio includes a range of historically significant buildings across the UK, demonstrating a commitment to preserving architectural heritage.
Despite the adoption of modern technologies, R. Durtnell and Sons maintains a dedication to craftsmanship and quality that echoes through their work. The firm has survived the Great Fire of London, two world wars, and numerous economic downturns, illustrating the resilience and adaptability of this storied enterprise.
Today, they continue to blend historical construction methods with modern practices, ensuring their relevance and operational excellence in contemporary Britain.
6. Zum Franziskaner – Stockholm, Sweden (1421 AD)
Zum Franziskaner’s establishment traces back to 1421, making it one of the oldest pubs in Stockholm, Sweden. It was initially set up to cater to German merchants and sailors frequenting the city’s ports, reflecting the rich cultural exchanges of the Hanseatic League’s trading era. The pub showcases a traditional German-Swedish menu, offering dishes like sauerkraut and schnitzel alongside local favorites. The ambiance retains a rustic charm with wooden beams and antique furnishings that hark back to its medieval origins.
Zum Franziskaner not only serves as a place for food and drink but also as a venue for cultural events, including live music and historical talks. The pub’s longstanding operation serves as a bridge between the past and present, providing a historic meeting place for locals and tourists alike.
7. Gien Antiques Market – Gien, France (1485)
One of the oldest antiques markets in Europe, the Gien Antiques Market in France began its operations in 1485. Over the centuries, it has been a pivotal spot for antique lovers and collectors, showcasing a vast array of European antiquities. The market is especially known for its selection of fine French furniture, paintings, and decorative arts dating back to the Renaissance.
The vibrant atmosphere and the eclectic collection of items attract thousands of visitors each year, making it a cultural landmark. Dealers from all over the globe come here to buy, sell, and share stories of their finds. The Gien Antiques Market not only offers a window into the past through its products but also fosters an international community of antiques enthusiasts.
8. Beretta Firearms – Gardone Val Trompia, Italy (1526 AD)
Established in 1526, Beretta is the oldest firearms manufacturer in the world. Located in Gardone Val Trompia, Italy, the company has been owned and operated by the Beretta family for almost five centuries. Over the years, Beretta has supplied weapons for every major European war since 1650 and is renowned for the quality and durability of its products. The company’s shotguns are particularly famous, widely used in both military and sporting contexts.
Beretta’s commitment to excellence in craftsmanship has made it a preferred choice among hunters, sportsmen, and law enforcement agencies worldwide. The longevity of this iconic brand highlights its adaptability and innovative spirit in the evolving firearms industry.
9. Cambridge University Press – Cambridge, England (1584 AD)
Cambridge University Press, founded in 1584, is the oldest publishing house in the world still in operation. It was established under a royal charter granted by King Henry VIII and has been serving the academic community ever since. Throughout its history, Cambridge University Press has been at the forefront of printing and publishing innovation, contributing to the spread of knowledge across the globe.
The Press has published works by some of the most influential thinkers in history, including John Milton, Isaac Newton, and Stephen Hawking. Today, it continues to publish high-quality academic and educational materials, merging traditional practices with digital technologies. The enduring success of Cambridge University Press underscores the continuing relevance of scholarly communication in both print and digital forms.
10. Tattersalls – Newmarket, England (1766 AD)
Tattersalls, founded in 1766 at Newmarket, England, is the oldest horse auctioneer in the world. It started when Richard Tattersall, former coachman to the second Duke of Kingston, began selling horses near Hyde Park Corner.
Tattersalls quickly became the leading bloodstock auctioneers, setting standards for sales and racing worldwide. The auction house has had a profound influence on the global thoroughbred racing industry, fostering the trade of some of the finest racehorses in history.
Tattersalls hosts numerous sales throughout the year, which attract buyers and sellers from around the globe, maintaining its status as a major hub for the international racing community. The enduring prestige of Tattersalls highlights the rich heritage and continuing significance of equine sports.
Conclusion
The longevity of these businesses is impressive, reflecting not only their ability to adapt to changing market conditions but also their deep-rooted significance within their respective communities. These establishments offer more than products or services; they are custodians of history, embodying traditions and stories that span centuries.
Whether through a pint of ale, a historical artifact, or a timeless edition, these stores bridge the past with the present, inviting each visitor to partake in their enduring legacy. As much as these businesses stand as testaments to commercial endurance, they also serve as reminders of the world’s rich, multifaceted history.