Water and Health

The healing power of Kotulje mineral water

A freely accessible mineral-water fountain, refurbished in 1957; photo: Tomo Jeseničnik
An older mineral-water fountain was installed by the wall of the spa building; photo: Tomo Jeseničnik

The healing effects of Kotulje mineral water were known long before the spa was built. Because it contained no harmful impurities and had a pleasant taste, people of all ages drank it. It was highlighted as effective for various inflammatory diseases of the respiratory tract, urinary tract and digestive system. It was also recommended during epidemics and as a refreshing drink for travellers.

1877

In 1878, the court supplier Josef Steinhäubl donated 70 bottles of mineral water to the Ursuline convent in Klagenfurt. At the military hospital in Klagenfurt, doctors Dr von Vilas and Dr Luschin carried out clinical observations of the effects after drinking Kotulje mineral water. They confirmed positive results for respiratory diseases, stomach problems, and diseases of the kidneys and bladder. The water was also suitable for preparing medicinal drinks: mixed with wine or fruit juices it had a refreshing effect, and for children troubled by coughs they recommended a combination with warm milk or sugar. Time and again, Kotulje mineral water was ranked among the purest mineral waters of its time.

Publication of the results from the clinical report on the use of Kotulje mineral water at the military hospital in Klagenfurt in 1879; Klagenfurter Zeitung, 6. April 1879, p. 636.