Yastaah

Potosì is not only the highest city of the world. It used to be the richest city of South America.  It was during the colonial era, when the Spanish empire took advantage from the abundance of silver in the mines of this beautiful city. Mines don't bring that richness now but still are the history of Potosì. That's why a mine tour to Cerro Rico is a must do. During my tour I've also appreciated the way the miners are thankful to El Tìo, the lord of the underworld . The miners are often polytheist as the Catholic church doesn't allow the people to believe in this God. Apparently it was first introduced by the Spanish colonialist in order to scare the workers. But el Tìo , the uncle, also known as el diablo, the devil, now is their protector. To him the miners give coca leaves, alcohol, cigarettes and some blood of lama. There is a large number of his statue in the mines. All the colonial influence can be seen in the wonderful city center, one of the best main...

It's time to speak about coca plant which is cultivated in few Countries of south America. Why am I talking about that? I've just spent the half of my first day in Potosì with a massive and super painful headache. The reason? The altitude. Potosì is one of the highest city in the world: more than 4,000m/13,000ft above the sea level.  No matter where you are coming from, the very first days here, you will struggle even walking or just breathing. The solution? The hojas de coca , coca leaves. People here chew it or make some tea. It's so common that I've even seen people chewing it while jogging. Obviously it's legal to sell and buy it. But if you don't like the idea, then go to a pharmacy and buy some pills, or wait a couple of days till your body will be fully acclimatised. By the way, I'm not a doctor, so just speak with one of them for more info. In my half (!!) day, this is what I've seen. Enjoy 😉 Will follow a second post for this beauti...