San Rafael Spring
A historical corner where a unique water flows, highly effervescent and rich in minerals, guarded by the ruins of an ancient pavilion and the memory of Santa Elisa’s splendor.
History and Surroundings
Located in the municipality of Espiel, in the shade of the Loma del Parralejo (Peñas Blancas Estate), the Fuente de San Rafael was one of the pillars of the historic Santa Elisa Spa. This complex had enormous relevance in its time, even being used as a hospital during the Civil War before tragically falling into ruins after 1936.
The spring flows under the remains of an old pavilion that, even today, preserves the characteristic San Rafael tile that gives the spring its name. Such was its fame and the quality of its waters that, in 1970, a request was made for its official declaration as mineral-medicinal water.
The Secret of its Waters: Natural Gas and Lithium
Unlike other nearby springs that flow from deep fractures, the geology of San Rafael gives it an exceptional hydrochemical composition. It is a sodium-magnesium bicarbonate water (where sodium dominates over calcium), indicating its own fascinating subterranean dynamic.
But what truly makes it unique is its level of effervescence. It is a highly carbonic water, whose dissolved gas contains approximately 98% CO₂, giving it a slightly “spicy” and sparkling taste, like a sparkling water created by nature itself. Furthermore, it is a highly mineralized water that stands out for its richness in trace elements, including iron, zinc, manganese, and valuable proportions of lithium.
Traditional Use and Medicinal Value
During the spa’s golden years, the San Rafael water was used in hydropinic cures (therapies based on drinking the water). Thanks to its stimulating and mineralizing power, it was highly recommended for treating digestion problems, loss of appetite, and kidney stones.
Although the Santa Elisa facilities are currently just an echo of the past, the spring never runs dry. Its access is simple and, driven by the deep-rooted fame of its medicinal properties, locals continue to visit regularly with their jugs to stock up and enjoy this unique therapeutic water.
Follow the water route
The springs of Villaharta hold centuries of history, legends, and unique properties that the Cordoba land has gifted to travelers and locals. Come discover and taste them!
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