Potosi was founded by the discovery of ore in silver-rich Cerro Rico (rich hill) in 1544. Large-scale mining began immediately and the first of the silver was sent to Spain. In 1672, a mint was established to coin silver and water reservoirs were built to fulfill the growing population's needs. Then more than eighty six churches were built and the city's population increased to nearly 200,000, making it one of the largest and wealthiest city in Latin America and in the world. In 1987 (in Paris, France), the UNESCO declared the city of Potosí a "World Heritage Site" in recognition for its rich history and its wealth of colonial architecture. Its current population is close to 125,000.
Potosí is at an altitude of 13,300 feet making it the highest city in the world. The city is well-known for its cool weather and sometimes freezing rain. Because of the altitude travelers are cautioned to take it easy at least for a few days.
Note that currently there is no airservice to Potosi.
Tourist Attractions
 Cerro Rico: Mine tours are available. 
 La Casa de la Moneda: The first mint in Potosí, was built during the second half of the 18th century to control minting activities right where the silver was extracted. The Museo de la Casa de la Moneda has exhibits on silver and gold coining as well as colonial paintings. 

NAME                                               STARS           AREA             SINGLERATE

• CLAUDIA HOSTEL                      4                  CENTRAL     $44
• CLIMA ARGENTUM                    4                  CENTRAL     $51
• COLONIAL HOSTEL                  4                  CENTRAL     $48
• LIBERTADOR HOTEL                4                  CENTRAL      $44