End of an era: Nuremberg Mohren pharmacy closes after 582 years

End of an era: Nuremberg Mohren pharmacy closes after 582 years

Farewell to an institution in Nuremberg

The closure of the Mohren pharmacy in Königstrasse represents a turning point in the long history of the city of Nuremberg. After 582 years, this traditional pharmacy closes, which not only affects the immediate neighborhood, but also has far-reaching economic and cultural implications for the region.

background of the closure

The decision to close was difficult for the pharmacy director Wilhelm Bouhon. He was forced to react to the changed framework conditions that affect not only his pharmacy, but the entire pharmacy system in Germany. According to Bouhon, customers in the old town of Nuremberg have changed significantly, which was reinforced by the decline in classic customers and the closure of large shops, as the Galeria Kaufhof in 2023.

A remarkable decline in pharmacies can be observed throughout the Federal Republic. In 2024, a new low of only 17,288 pharmacies was reported. The acceptance is not only in rural regions, but also in urban areas, which is a worrying trend.

The auction of the inventory

The inventory of the Mohren pharmacy, which will be auctioned on July 25, comprises over 400 positions, including pharmacy equipment and furniture, starting with a minimum bid of only 1 euro. Fabian Altrichter, who works for the auction company, entirely.com, expresses that demand is great and would certainly find lovers for many of the articles.

The cultural meaning of the pharmacy

The Mohren pharmacy was founded in 1442 and survived many epochs of history, including epidemics and wars. Their loss is not only an economic, but also a cultural event for the city. The pharmacy was a meeting point for locals and tourists and played a key role in health care, including special services such as hemophilia care.

Future view for the city of Nuremberg

The closure is part of a larger pattern of the "pharmacy death" that affects numerous cities and municipalities in Germany. In Nuremberg there is also a traditional butcher shop. This development raises questions about future care and the city's cultural identity. The thesis that the local infrastructure and history are in danger becomes more and more a reality. It remains to be hoped that the responsible measures will take to minimize such losses in the future.

- Nag