06.04.23

For Bolivian standards, there is a really pompous breakfast buffet with fresh fruits, cereals, and all kinds of pastries, but they are all very sugary. And at least there is filter coffee instead of the usual instant coffee.

Afterwards, I go to Casa de la Libertad, right across from Plaza de 25 Mayo. Bolivia was founded here in 1825. The main role was played by the freedom fighter Simon Bolivar, who is revered in many countries in South America. The tour is in Spanish and I always have to push ahead of the older lady to hear her gentle voice through the surgical mask. Definitely worth a visit, you learn a lot about the country's history and its national heroes (for example, Bolivia had access to the Pacific Ocean and the port of Antofagasta for a long time until it lost the Saltpetre War against Chile in 1884).

After this concentrated dose of culture, I hike up the hill to Mirador Norte Churuquella. On the way, I pass numerous small Catholic shrines and Cholitas selling candles and pictures of Jesus. Seems to be a pilgrimage route. There are also some cheeky packs of dogs here that you have to shout at loudly to get rid of them. Unfortunately, the view is restricted by a eucalyptus monoculture that covers the entire hill. At the top, there is a huge statue of Jesus and even more stalls where you can buy pictures of Jesus and candles. A preacher is also present and worships the Lord with an agitated voice.

On the way down to the city center, I have lunch at the Potocchi restaurant. The best quinoa soup and vegetarian tortilla so far, according to the talkative chef and owner, who tells me it's his grandmother's recipe. I promise him to come back tomorrow.

In the afternoon, I visit the Museum of Treasury.

This time, it is explained in English in a vivid way about the mining industry that made Bolivia rich in the 19th century, especially the silver mines in Potosi. The guide also tells many other side facts, for example, that one gram of gold can be stretched to a two-kilometer (!) long thread.

In the evening, I stroll through the shopping street, which is full of fake articles. I grab a soft taco with various fillings. The owner even brings out a plush skeleton for decoration for the photo of his small snack window.