Visit the Potosi Royal Mint
Visit the historic mint that once overflowed with the wealth of South America’s richest city.
Potosí’s narrow streets and crumbling colonial architecture attest to a very different period in its history. This declining mining town surrounded by ravaged plains was once the richest city in the whole of South America, pouring out a river of silver from the mines of Cerro Rico (‘Rich Mountain’).
The UNESCO-listed Royal Mint occupies an entire block, and while its coffers have now run dry there is an excellent museum on the site. Abandoned once the Spanish left, the mint came to be used as a prison, fortress and even an HQ for the Bolivian army during the Chaco War. A visit will demonstrate the mint’s many-faceted history and give an impression of the opulence of Potosí during its heyday.
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Why choose Journey Latin America for your holiday
We’ve been planning trips to Central and South America for over 45 years, longer than any other UK specialist. Every holiday is built around you by a Travel Expert who has been to the places they recommend, with support from your first enquiry to the day you fly home.
Rosie embarked on a year-long backpacking trip across Latin America. She is excited to share her knowledge and experiences with others.
Finn discovered his passion for travel on an extensive 18-month trip to Latin America, experiencing the vibrant Carnaval in Rio, the end-of-the-world city of Ushuaia, trekking the Andes and volunteering on the Galápagos Islands.
Maggie visited Latin America on her first backpacking trip when she was 19. Since then, she has taken every opportunity to travel, and has managed to explore a lot of the region in subsequent trips.
Gary discovered what he had been missing with his first foray into the wilds of Latin America. In his role as Product Manager, he combines this personal obsession with years of industry experience to help ensure that travellers will fall for the region every bit as much as he has.
