This article describes life and works of Dutch anatomist and botanist Pieter Pauw (1564-1617). Special attention paid to anatomical theatre at Leiden University established by him in 1597 and foundation of famous anatomical school. His contribution to clinical medicine (first documented description of diabetes insipidus and retinoblastoma), anatomy (discovery of maxillary sinus, "ossiculus Pavonius") and botany (development of botanical garden) is described.

Article provides Russian translation of the first description of spina bifida found in work of Dutch physician and anatomist Nicolas Tulp (1593-1674). Brief biographical sketch is given and his contribution to medicine is described