VANZONIS MINERAL WATER
The origin of the Acqua Vanzonis that flows in Vanzone con San Carlo, in the Anzasca Valley dates back a long way. Today, it has been rediscovered and enhanced through major projects.
Near the hamlet of San Carlo there’s a stream, called Crotto Rosso, whose creek bed has a characteristic ochre colour caused by the water deposits that came out from the Miniere dei Cani, ancient gold deposits at about 1500 metres (4921 ft) above sea level.
From the mines, a spring of acqua arsenicale ferruginosa (arsenical-ferruginous water) containing carbonic acid still gushes out today. Discovered in the early 1800s, the water was not used because of the logistic difficulties in reaching the source.
In the early 1900s, a series of chemical analyses and the establishment of the Mineral Sources and Mines of Vanzone d’Ossola Joint Stock Company led to modest goals being achieved. It was not until 1961 that the Terme del Monte Rosa company was founded, the aim of which was to exploit the Miniere dei Cani water source. In the 1960s, various tests were conducted and the Acqua Vanzonis in the Anzasca Valley was classified as a type of bacteriologically pure water containing iron oxide and traces of arsenic that is rare in Europe. It’s known as acqua arsenicale ferruginosa.
Acqua Vanzonis is characterised by strong acidity, with pH values between 2.4 and 2.5, and is recommended for various diseases, being one of the richest waters in the world in terms of metal elements (it contains 61).
There are many projects related to this precious water: the registration of the historic brand Acqua Vanzonis, now owned by the Municipality of Vanzone, university research, future plans to build a spa, the return of this medicinal water to pharmacies across Europe and much more.
The inauguration of Casa Vanzonis is an important part of this project, a large showcase for a rich exhibition on the past, present and future of Acqua Vanzonis and the Miniere dei Cani.
Info: www.acquavanzonis.it – info@acquavanzonis.it
