Virgen Artesian Mineral Water lies in the depths of the Arequita hill. It owes its name (Are-Cua- Tia) “River of the high Stone Cave” to the Guaranies, Amerindians who inhabited this natural sanctuary during the pre-columbian era.
Many legends and passions are woven around this hill, which has been object of many conflicts between the ethnic groups that used to coexist in these austral fields. Since immemorial times, the Arequita has been considered a sacred place, and it is said that the ánimas of the past keep enchanting this mystical place, where peace, harmony, freshness and vitality invades the visitors instantly.
Here, nature in its pristine state has remained as in the beginning of time, preserving the purity of our water.
Virgen Artesian Mineral Water, emerges from an exhaustive search in Uruguay for the highest quality of water, by experts in geology and hydrogeology.
The natural source of Virgen Water arises from a very particular geological environment. This area of Uruguay gathered rocks of different ages throughout the years. The latest datings show that the region of Lavalleja, where the source is located, is home to some of the oldest rock formations in South America (estimated to be 3.5 billion years old) coexisting harmoniously with younger rocks, creating an incomparable geological frame to filter and contain our water. The location of these geological materials and our understanding of their unique characteristics is the explanation for the exceptional properties and superior taste in Virgen Water.
Geologically, rocks from these mountains are the result of volcanic activity that occured coincident to the separation of the American and African continents. Water, on its underground trip, has travelled along the depths of limestone rock for centuries.This region was able to preserve purity in its interior. These unusual rock formations have acted as an ancient incubator, producing some of the world’s finest mineral waters.
This has given us an environmental gift, combining a perfect mineral balance and superb taste: a taste captured in every bottle of Virgen Water.
Virgen Artesian Water perpetuates its purity at its source, for being located in a natural reserve considered world Heritage. It is protected by national Uruguayan law Nº 17.234 and its preservation was financed by the US Fish and Wildlife Service.
Down the Arequita hill, lies the world`s second largest Ombú colony. This prehistorical native tree is considered by botany as a giant herb, it can reach 40 feet high and spread over 60 feet. It is made of 80% water, turning it virtually immune to fire. It is believed that the energy of this land, its richness, and the great presevation of its aquifer, have originated this exceptional phenomenon.
It is within this sanctuary, that Nature itself creates, protects and nurtures Virgen Water, allowing it to remain preserved, immaculate, virtuous……untouched.