Potosí Department

The department extends across 118,218 square kilometers of mountainous terrain, encompassing the Salar de Uyuni salt flat and mineral-rich Andean highlands.

The region contained the most productive silver mines of the Spanish Empire, generating enormous wealth through the extraction of precious metals during colonial times.

The department preserves indigenous traditions with Quechua and Aymara communities maintaining their languages, agricultural practices, and traditional ceremonies throughout its sixteen provinces.

Modern mining activities focus on lithium, zinc, and silver extraction, with the San Cristobal mines generating substantial mineral production for international markets.

The Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve contains red and green lagoons where flamingos feed among mineral-colored waters at high altitudes.

Location: Bolivia

Capital city: Potosí

Part of: South America Midwest Integrated Zone

Shares border with: Oruro Department, Cochabamba Department, Chuquisaca Department, Tarija Department, Jujuy Province, Antofagasta Region, Tarapacá Region

Website: https://potosi.gob.bo

GPS coordinates: -20.66667,-66.66667

Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:41