Potosi is a city famous not only because of its altitude of over 13,000 feet, but (more importantly) for its mining history. Because of these silver mines, Potosi was the largest and wealthiest city in Latin America
hundreds of years ago under Spanish rule. It is incredible to think of this fact while driving through today's impoverished city. Today, despite the fact that the mines are greatly depleted, thousands still work in medieval conditions that most of us would have trouble imagining. The mines have become a popular attraction for backpackers looking to find out a little bit about this way of life. We were given a tour by Willie, a former miner who was lucky enough to get out of the business after seeing his father and grandfather both die there.
(It is said that due to the noxious chemicals these guys breathe in, ones life expectancy can be as short as 10 years after making that first fateful step into the mines) Willie gave us great insight into the beliefs of the miners and how difficult a life they lead. Though most of the miners share Christian beliefs outside of the mines, they all worship and give thanks to 'Tio' (the devil) while inside the mines for allowing them to work and earn a living in his lair. We 
also got to meet some of the miners and give them gifts of coca leaves, cigarettes, alcohol and dynamite that we had purchased in the miners market. We also bought some 
dynamite for ourselves to blow up outside the mine. Another requisite stop in this town is the Casa de la Moneda museum which was a former mint of Spanish coins back during the town's heydey. Ironically, these days Bolivian coins are made in Spain.
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