Cerro de Potosí, Bolivia will Blow Your Mind:
Intriguing Journey to the Historic Silver Mountain: Cerro de Potosi
Nestled high in the Andes Mountains of Bolivia, Cerro de Potosí, also known as Cerro Rico (Rich Mountain), holds a significant place in history. This legendary mountain was once a prolific source of silver, fueling the Spanish Empire’s wealth.
Back in 2012 I embarked on a journey to Cerro de Potosí, exploring its historical significance, breathtaking landscapes, and the enduring spirit of the mining community that surrounds it.
Well, truth is, I had no idea why I was even in Potosi when I got there, and at first I really just wanted to get out of the God-forsaken place as fast as I could. But Cerro de Potosi blew my mind..
A couple of guys I had met in La Paz told me I had to go to Cerro de Potosi. They didn’t seem too clear of the reasons why, but it probably had something to do with mines. Shucks, that was good enough for me to throw my hat in with them.
The three of us made a long punishing bus trip to Potosi and got dumped on the edge of town. As far as we could understand some sort of public march, demonstration, strike or musical event has caused the road to the bus station to get completely blocked.
So, we had to walk for about 15 minutes into town. Uphill. Under a blazing sun. With big backpacks on. At 4,090 metres (13,420 ft) of altitude. Those were possibly the longest 15 minutes of my life.
Potosi is one of the highest cities in the world and is a remote, desolate, impoverished city that feels like the end of the world. It is punishingly cold at night and during the day the rays of sun feel like tiny daggers on your skin. Why did they even build a city here and why did I decide to visit it? Well, have I mentioned the Cerro de Potosi mine yet?
Explore the mountain’s mining heritage and delve into the captivating tales of fortune and hardship.
That first night I put on every single item of clothing I owned and huddled under the covers of my hotel bed to read the story of Cerro de Potosi. I was stunned to discover that I was currently in one of the continent’s most famous and historic cities.
Cerro de Potosí has a storied past that dates back to the Spanish colonial era. The mountain’s rich silver deposits were a coveted resource that brought immense wealth to the Spanish Empire. It played a crucial role in the global economy, fueling trade and shaping the destiny of nations.
At one point, Potosi was the biggest and richest city in the Americas, bigger than the contemporary European cities of London and Madrid. Nowadays it is the sort of adventurous destination that many people backpacking South America head towards.
Cerro de Potosi – Legends of Obscene Wealth and Wanton Waste.
The imposing Cerro Rico hill that overlooks the city is the reason for the fame of Potosi. Here, the Spanish found silver and other precious metals beyond their wildest dreams. Some historians even suggest that without the riches of this Potosi mine the European mercantile system would never have existed.
The tales of obscene wealth and wanton waste here are extraordinary, with expensive silver cutlery being thrown out to save washing it and the streets leading to the many churches being paved with precious metals. Of course, all of this came at a cost. It is estimated that around 8 million miners have died here over the centuries, most of them slaves. That total isn’t far of the current total population of the whole country of Bolivia. Cerro de Potosi is currently one of the top Bolivia tourist attractions, but it still feels very far from a polished, slick travel destination.
Deep into the Cerro de Potosi Mine at last:
I went on a tour of the mines the next day and it was as fascinating and depressing as any place with antiquated, dangerous working conditions and a history of death can be. I was blown away by the fact that people still mine this hill that the Spanish started exploiting in the 16th century. These days, miners scrabble out what metals they can, while drinking potent 95% proof alcohol, chewing coca leaves, and smoking unfiltered cigarettes that they ask tourists to buy for them. You can also buy a stick of dynamite for them to explode, if you like.
The tiny tunnels and the lack of obvious security measures made those fatality figures seem a lot more realistic than they had seemed the previous night. I heard that Cerro Rico is so filled with tunnels that it is now like a giant Swiss cheese and could collapse at any time, so I was very relieved to get out of there.
The Casa de la Moneda is also worth a visit, as it was the oldest Mint in the Americas and is now an interesting museum which is one of the Bolivia tourist attractions that attract a lot of national tourists.
However, as I left Cerro de Potosi I was still haunted by the images of sick looking miners – many of them kids- trying to make a living from a dangerous and exhausted old mountain. It isn’t a conventional type of travel destination, but if you want to see a different side of life while backpacking South America, then you won’t regret visiting Potosi.
The Meat & Potatoes of Cerro Rico
1. A Rich History:
Cerro de Potosí has a storied past that dates back to the Spanish colonial era. The mountain’s rich silver deposits were a coveted resource that brought immense wealth to the Spanish Empire. It played a crucial role in the global economy, fueling trade and shaping the destiny of nations. Explore the mountain’s mining heritage and delve into the captivating tales of fortune and hardship.
2. The Mining Community:
As you approach Cerro de Potosí, you will encounter the town of Potosí, which thrived due to the mining activities on the mountain. Engage with the local mining community, who carry on the legacy of their ancestors. Gain insight into their lives, traditions, and the challenges they face in their daily work. Their resilience and unwavering spirit are a testament to the mountain’s enduring legacy.
3. Mesmerizing Landscapes:
The landscapes surrounding Cerro de Potosí are nothing short of breathtaking. The mountain itself boasts rugged peaks and steep slopes, showcasing the raw beauty of the Andean highlands. Take in panoramic views of the vast Altiplano and the distant peaks of the Cordillera Real. The picturesque scenery serves as a reminder of the indomitable power of nature and its enduring influence on the region.
4. Cultural Heritage:
Beyond its mining history, Cerro de Potosí and the town of Potosí are home to a rich cultural heritage. Explore the historic center of Potosí, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its magnificent colonial architecture, churches, and museums. Discover the intricate religious art, vibrant festivals, and the fusion of indigenous and Spanish influences that have shaped the region’s cultural identity.
(In ENGLISH)
5. A Journey of Reflection:
Visiting Cerro de Potosí is not just an exploration of history and natural beauty; it is also an opportunity for reflection. Witnessing the harsh conditions faced by the miners and understanding the human cost associated with the pursuit of wealth provides a humbling perspective. It serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices and responsible mining in preserving both the environment and the well-being of the communities.
(In SPANISH)
Cerro de Potosí – Conclusion:
Cerro de Potosí offers a captivating journey through history, nature, and the indomitable human spirit. As you explore the mountain and its surroundings, you will be transported to a bygone era of silver fortunes and the endurance of a mining community. Cerro de Potosí serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact that natural resources have on our world and the need to appreciate, protect, and learn from the past as we shape a sustainable future.
Europe: A Tapestry of Diversity, Culture and Adventure
Europe, a continent as diverse as it is beautiful, is a traveler’s dream come true. From the snow-capped peaks of the Alps to the sun-kissed beaches of the Mediterranean, Europe offers an enchanting mix of experiences for every type of traveler. Join us as we embark on a journey through the heart of Europe, discovering…
Our Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Kuwait
Discovering Kuwait: Journey Through its Hidden Treasures Hey fellow wanderlusters, let’s dive into Kuwait’s kaleidoscope of culture, where the past meets modernity. I’ve uncovered five must-visit spots for the young and adventurous traveler. From sipping on sweet tea under Bedouin tents to catching epic sunsets, Kuwait is an adventure waiting to happen. Map of Kuwait…
Our Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Dominica
Dominica: Where Adventure Meets Paradise Welcome to Dominica, the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean. If you’re seeking a destination that’s off the beaten path, brimming with natural wonders and adventure, you’ve found it. Here, you’ll explore lush rainforests, soak in rejuvenating hot springs, and dive into sparkling turquoise waters. Let’s embark on a journey to…
Our Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Jordan
My Journey Through Jordan’s Top 5 Destinations If you’re ready to dive into a world of ancient wonders, surreal landscapes, and incredible experiences, then Jordan is calling your name. Let me take you on a ride through my unforgettable journey as I uncovered the 5 best places to visit in this captivating country. Map of…
Our Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Lebanon
Lebanon Unveiled: Exploring the Mystique of the Middle East Welcome to the captivating land of Lebanon! Nestled along the Mediterranean Sea, this enchanting country is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Let’s embark on a journey to discover some of the most mesmerizing places that Lebanon has to offer. Map of Lebanon…
Our Top 5 Best Places to Visit in Guinea
Unveiling Guinea’s Hidden Treasures: 5 Must-Visit Places Are you ready for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in West Africa? Guinea, a hidden gem nestled between Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Mali, Cote d’Ivoire, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, awaits your discovery. Prepare to be captivated by its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming people as we explore some of the must-visit…
Would you like to find Cheap Business Class Flights? – Here are 5 things you can do
These are our Top 10 Best Travel Destinations Worldwide 2023
California Dreaming: Best Places to Visit in California
Our Best 10 Affordable Vacation Destinations if you are on a tight budget
Check out our 5 top beaches in the Philippines
Our Absolute Best Free Places to Visit in New York That are FREE!
Exploring the Wonders of Australia – A Traveler’s Paradise – 7 of Our All Time Favourites
Backpacking in Australia – An Absolute Must for the Young and Carefree
Our Top 5 Things to do in Majorca Away From the Sand
Cerro de Potosi – by Robert Bell
Cerro de Potosí, Bolivia Cover image courtesy of Alamy
Additional images: adobe · colourbox · istock · pexels · shutterstock · unsplash unless otherwise stated.
Was our Cerro de Potosi Bolivia helpful to you?
Let us know your thoughts in the comments below..
And if you are looking for a specific piece of information, please do comment below..
4 Comments