Cerro Rico: The Mountain That Financed an Empire
Located in the southern highlands of Bolivia, Cerro Rico, or "rich mountain" in Spanish, stands at approximately 4,800 meters above sea level, towering over the city of Potosí.
Famous for its vast silver reserves, Cerro Rico played a significant role in financing the Spanish Empire.
Author Antonio de León Pinelo claimed in 1656 that enough silver had been extracted by Indigenous and African slaves to build a bridge from Bolivia to Madrid.
At its peak in the early 17th century, Potosí was one of the world's most populated cities, surpassing London and Milan in size. Today, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the mountain continues to be exploited by miners from 54 cooperatives for zinc, lead, tin, and silver, driving the city's economy.
Cerro Rico's legacy is a testament to its historical significance, and its ongoing exploitation ensures its continued impact on the local economy.
Author's summary: Cerro Rico financed the Spanish Empire.