Climb the intricately decorated bell tower of one of the most impressive churches in Potosi, a city full of important religious sites.
One of the most fascinating pieces of architecture in Potosi is the Compania de Jesus, a converted church that still retains its stunning tower. Take photos of the impressive faded-pink tower and climb it for views of the surrounding region. The rest of the church today houses Potosi’s tourist information center.
Admire a building that is over 300 years old. The church was originally built in 1707 by Jesuits on the grounds of an older, collapsed church.
Step inside the building to see a totally renovated interior that hosts the tourist information office. This sleek center has everything you need to know about Potosi. Get some free advice on the various sights in the city and pick up maps to help with navigation.
Gaze up at the tower from outside and study the ornate, detailed carvings. The tower is designed in the Mestizo style, which blends Spanish Baroque reliefs with South American aesthetics.
Marvel at the stonemasonry of the Corinthian columns standing either side of the arched doorway. Return to the tower at night to see it lit up in glowing orange.
Climb the tower to where the bells used to be kept. Take your camera for unrivalled shots of the colorful city of Potosi. Next to the tower is the historic Royal Mint building, where they used to process silver mined from the hills.
Once at the top of the bell tower, look out between the arches for views of the highland plains known as the Altiplano. Look for the red-dust mound of Cerro Rico, the mineral-rich hill where many locals work as part of mining cooperatives.
There is a small fee to climb the Compania de Jesus tower. The tourist information center, however, is free to enter. The church and tower open daily avoid visiting at midday, when the building is closed for 2 hours. Take a taxi to the tower then walk between the sites of the area, such as the neighboring Royal Mint museum.
