Cerro Rico
the Cerro Rico is part of Potosí (Villa Imperial) .Top photos chosen by u all:
Ammonium Nitrate
Made by Phillie Casablanca
In the mining town of Potosi, Bolivia, we bought ammonium nitrate partly as a gift to local miners, but also so we could build our own explosives. A stick of nitro-glycerin was wrapped in ammonium nitrate, a detonator was shoved into the package and a fuse full of gun powder came away from the package. Once lit, we had three minutes (during which time it was passed round and we posed for photos!) before it went off with an ear-shattering bang...
Explosives
Made by Phillie Casablanca
Heading South down towards Chile, we stopped at a mining town of Potosi. This bag contains a stick of nitro-glycerine, wrapped in ammonium nitrate. A detonator was shoved into the package and a fuse full of gunpowder acted as a timer. This was dropped on the ground a safe distance away while we waited for the explosion - even though we knew it was coming, it still scared the hell out of us!
Miners
Made by Phillie Casablanca
In Potosi, Bolivia, the ore has to be removed from the mine manually. The ore being mined is composed of zinc (10%), lead (4%), silver (3%), tin (trace) and waste. The miners typically work eight hours a day, 6-7 days a week, in awful conditions. The temperature in the mines climbs up to 40ºc and virtually all work is done by hand.
Hard work
Made by Phillie Casablanca
It was practically pitch black in this mine in Potosi, Bolivia. Horrible working conditions, and even worse when you consider that this is still at high altitude (and therefore much harder work). Plus it was very hot.
Potosi Mountian
Made by NeilsPhotography
Potosi Mountian This ex volcano was where most of the Spanish sliver came from during the 15th century. Its still open as a mine and I wanted to go inside.
Nearest places of interest:
| UYUNI Colchani Tarija Plaza Luis De Fuentes | Crater de Maragua Parque Cretácico Cal Orko Museo San Francisco Potosí (Villa Imperial) |
