Potos

Potos, often written Potosí in Spanish, is a city and the capital of Tomás Frías Province in Bolivia's Potosí Department. It lies in the Andean highlands at an elevation of about 4,090 meters (13,420 feet), making it one of the highest inhabited cities in the world. The city sits near Cerro Rico, a mountain whose silver ore drove its early growth and helped finance the Spanish colonial empire.

Founded in 1545 after silver was discovered at Cerro Rico, Potosí rapidly expanded into a major mining and commercial center. Its wealth attracted financiers and workers from across the region, shaping a dense colonial urban fabric with churches, mansions, and a grid-like street plan. The mining economy declined after the colonial era but remained culturally and economically central to the area.

Heritage: The historic center of Potosí is recognized for its well-preserved architecture from the colonial period. In 1987, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical significance and artistic value.

Today, Potosí remains associated with mining, with Cerro Rico continuing to be mined in modern times, alongside growing tourism. Visitors can explore the old streets, learn about the city’s mining heritage, and, under guided supervision, sometimes tour nearby mines. The city’s altitude, scenery, and architecture continue to attract researchers, historians, and travelers alike.