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Potosi
Potosi has had various accolades attached to it over the centuries; situated 4,070 meters above the sea level makes it the highest city in the world, in 1650 it was the most populated city in the world with more residents than London or Paris. All of this was due to silver which has been excavated from its mines from as far back as 1623 and is still continuing today.
Due to the discovery of the greatest silver deposits of the planet it was once considered "the place to live," where ornate cathedrals and mansions were built and the roads were said to be made of silver and where some of the wealthiest and most respected people in the world lived, it was a colonial masterpiece.
Today things have changed for the city of Potosi, fuelled by the greed of the Spaniards, indigenous people were forced to labour day and night inside the extreme conditions of the mines. It is now one of the poorest cities in South America. In 1987, UNESCO declared the city of Potosi a "World Heritage Site" in recognition for its rich history and its wealth of colonial architecture. The city is an absolute must for enthusiast of colonial religious architecture and many historic churches. Though Potosi has a sad history it is fascinating to explore the remains of city that once was considered the place to live. THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Below is a list of things to see and do around Potosi, though we are able to create any itinerary depending on your interests.
Cerro Rico. A visit to Potosi isn't complete without a visit to one of the cooperative silver mines. It's a shocking experience as the methods of working haven't changed much since the colonial times. Tours starts with a visit to the miners' market to buy gifts for the miners like coca leaves, cigarettes or dynamite. A typical visit will have you walking and crawling through the mine for about 2 to 3 hours La Torre de la Compañía. This Convent is located next to the Cerro Rico and Casa de la Moneda. It is a symbol of the brilliance of Potosi. It is the main religious monument from the XVIII century in Bolivia. Its construction was figured out as an Arch of Triumph composed by 5 openings, 32 columns and 3 domes. It is an ostensible religious structure.
Santa Teresa Museum. Built in 1761 it keeps a beautiful collection of pictures and religious objects. Its women owners make delicious marzipan sweets which are very popular among visitors.
San Francisco Church. This was the first church to be built in Potosí. In its internal part, you can find an excellent exhibition of colonial paintings. San Benito Church. A superb expression of Moorish art. The structure is covered by nine big stones that form nine domes. San Lorenzo Church. This church presents a sculpted gate that preserves the most representative images and forms of the American Architecture. Casa de la Moneda. This famous building was built in 1753. Its construction took 20 years. It is a fantastic museum that keeps one of the most important repositories of the colonial mining extractions.
Recommended lodges in this area:
Potosi
With very few decent hotel options in the city, this is the only one we would recommend. Rooms can be a little dark, but the service of the staff is great
Sucre
The Villa Antigua Hotel is a beautiful, restored mansion dating from 1860. It still maintains its original structure and the balconies with their romantic setting offer you vistas over City
Uyuni
The Luna Salada is one of the most interesting hotels in the whole of Bolivia, if not South America. Built entirely of salt blocks, the hotel sits on a small hill overlooking the Uyuni salt flats.
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