In the 16th century the powerful ruling family of the Medici's in Florence, owned the spring and it was fenced off as private property. The family had fresh drinking water from this preserved natural spring, as for many other unclaimed springs were contaminated with animal waste. This brand now belongs to San Pellegrino, which is owned by Nestlé. Nestlé distributes the natural water into Europe & North America. Acqua Panna has become the exclusive bottled beverage at many luxury establishments.