Workshops in Potosí, Bolivia

Embrace the Artisanal Spirit of Potosí

Welcome to Potosí, a city steeped in history and rich in cultural traditions! One unique way to immerse yourself in this captivating destination is by participating in its various workshops. Here’s some useful information to help you plan your creative adventure:

Silverwork (Platería) Workshops

• Location: Calle Principal de Potosí, between the Church of San Lorenzo and the Casa de la Moneda
• Activity: Learn about the traditional silver filigree techniques that have been passed down for centuries in Potosí. Craft your own pieces under the guidance of skilled artisans.
• Tip: Plan ahead and book a workshop in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak travel seasons.

Textile Workshops (Talleres de Tejeduría)

• Location: Calle Sucre, between Plaza 10 de Noviembre and Mercado Rosario
• Activity: Discover the ancient art of Andean textiles by learning to weave or dye textiles using traditional techniques. You can create your own intricate patterns or learn about the symbolism behind them.
• Tip: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as weaving can be a physical activity. Also, remember that haggling is common in these types of shops, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.

Pottery Workshops (Talleres de Cerámica)

• Location: Calle Sucre, between Plaza 10 de Noviembre and Mercado Rosario
• Activity: Potosí is known for its beautiful handcrafted pottery. In these workshops, you can learn the art of pottery making from local artisans and create your own pieces to take home as souvenirs.
• Tip: Be patient with yourself and enjoy the process – learning a new skill takes time!

Mining Workshops (Talleres de Minería)

• Location: Cerro Rico, Potosí City’s iconic silver mine
• Activity: Join a guided tour of the Cerro Rico mine to learn about its history and the mining techniques used here. Some tours offer workshops where you can try your hand at mining for silver under safe conditions.
• Tip: These tours can be physically demanding, so make sure you are in good health before participating. Wear sturdy shoes, long pants, and bring a jacket as it can get cold underground.