The city of Potosí was the largest silver producer in the world until Bolivian independence in 1825. Only 3 hours from Sucre, this somewhat gloomy city is one of the highest in the world at 4,090 metres and is not quite what it once was. Potosí´s fame comes from centuries ago, when it supplied extraordinary quantities of silver to Spain. This metal was extracted from thousands of mineshafts in "Cerro Rico" (Rich Mountain) and processed in hundreds of smelters.
Visit Potosi as part of our suggested itinerary, Bolivia, Iguazu Falls and Rio. 19 days, from £2,596 pp, excluding international flights! Find out more...
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These silver reserves of Potosi essentially funded the Spanish conquest of Latin America and also helped to fund Europe’s industrial revolution. Today the mines have all but closed and Potosí is now an intriguing shell of cobbled streets, colonial architecture and countless churches.
You can’t visit Potosi without visiting one of the remaining working mines where conditions have not changed in centuries. They are now worked as co-operatives. This experience is truly enlightening and gives you a real insight in the life of a silver miner.
Wrap up warm when you go here for the city is well-known for its cool weather and sometimes freezing rain.
Accommodation in Potosi...
Hotel Cima Argentum is situated about 6 blocks from the centre of Potosi. A modern hotel with twenty rooms with welcoming and efficient staff. More…
Hostal Colonial is a little gem of a hotel in a great location, half a block away from the main plaza and close to restaurants, cafes, sites of interest etc. The building is colonial and has two charming courtyards over which the rooms look out. More…
Potosi – The History. More...
